The National Population Commission (NPC) Chairman, Nasir Isa Kwarra, has announced that Nigeria’s long-overdue national census will take place in 2025. He revealed this during the 2024 Anniversary of the Nairobi Summit on the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) held in Abuja on Thursday.
Kwarra highlighted the challenges caused by the delay, including difficulties in assessing population needs and allocating resources, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
“The lack of accurate population data has hindered efforts to address key issues such as reproductive health services, family planning, and maternal mortality reduction,” Kwarra said.
Nigeria last conducted a population census in 2006, despite the United Nations’ recommendation for countries to hold one every 10 years. Efforts to conduct a census in 2023 were postponed twice under former President Muhammadu Buhari, who left the task to the incoming administration.
Kwarra emphasized the importance of up-to-date data for effective decision-making across various sectors, underscoring its role in driving social progress and inclusivity.
“The delay in conducting the census is a major setback for informed policymaking. Accurate population and housing data are crucial for advancing sexual and reproductive health, eliminating gender-based violence, and ensuring equal opportunities for all Nigerians, especially women and young people,” he stated.
The upcoming census is expected to address these gaps and help shape Nigeria’s developmental priorities.
