Nigeria’s 2025 Census: A Necessary Step Towards Accurate National Data

Nigeria’s upcoming national census in 2025 is crucial for accurate demographic data, crucial for national planning in various sectors. President Tinubu highlights the need for modern biometric approaches to data collection while addressing funding and collaboration among key agencies. The need for reliable information underscores the significance of the census for sustainable development policies and planning amid historical challenges.

Nigeria’s impending national census, slated for 2025, is essential for establishing reliable demographic data to inform national planning. President Bola Tinubu emphasized the necessity of understanding the population to effectively manage resources across various sectors, including employment and agriculture. The last census took place in 2006, highlighting the urgent need for updated data to confront contemporary issues facing the country.

The history of population censuses in Nigeria dates back to 1866, initiated by colonial authorities in Lagos, with subsequent censuses taking place in 1911, 1921, 1931, and through to 2006. Accurate census data is vital for assessing national well-being, shaping government policies, and allocating resources efficiently. This data assists in understanding demographic variances, informing educational needs, and identifying aid requirements for disabled populations.

Furthermore, the census will contribute significantly to disaster recovery planning, health care provisioning, and agricultural policy development. It is vital for determining security resource allocations, evaluating residents’ living standards, and ensuring optimal social amenities. Reliable data is also necessary for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals as outlined in the National Policy on Population for Sustainable Development.

President Tinubu’s administration is prioritizing this census by incorporating biometric and digital elements, which represent a modern approach to data gathering. During a meeting on February 24, 2025, he committed to aligning the census budget with current financial realities while involving critical agencies like the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) in the process.

Senator Abubakar Bagudu, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, reiterated that census data would play a pivotal role in future planning and resource distribution, indicating collaboration between various government agencies. Despite challenges in securing funding, including potential foreign aid constraints, the focus remains on achieving a successful and credible census that can guide national initiatives.

Historically, holding a census in an election year can disrupt data accuracy; therefore, conducting it in 2025 is essential, considering the looming 2027 general elections. Previous census exercises suffered from credibility issues, drawing the need for careful planning and transparency in this upcoming census. While costs may rise significantly—from N400 billion for an earlier proposal to a projected N942 billion—investing in accurate data collection is fundamentally critical for Nigeria’s growth and planning.

Funding mechanisms for this national activity might draw from various sources, including the federation account, emphasizing collective responsibility across state and local governments. However, ensuring a credible census is most imperative, alongside potential cost-savings strategies, such as utilizing youth corps members as enumerators, to guarantee inclusivity and community sampling in the counting process.

In conclusion, Nigeria’s 2025 national census is vital for accurate demographic data, essential for national planning across multiple sectors. The emphasis on incorporating modern biometric technology and the collaboration of various government agencies indicates a progressive approach. Despite anticipated fiscal challenges, ensuring reliable data is paramount for guiding Nigeria’s development, particularly in light of historical complications surrounding previous census efforts.

Original Source: punchng.com