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President Tinubu Set to Launch Digital National Census: A Bold Step Toward Data-Driven Governance

In a strategic move to modernize Nigeria’s demographic data infrastructure, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has initiated plans for a comprehensive, technology-driven national census. This initiative aims to provide accurate, real-time population data, ensuring precise policymaking, efficient resource allocation, and sustainable national development.

The Urgent Need for a National Census

Nigeria’s last official census was conducted in 2006, recording an estimated 140 million people. Since then, the country has relied on projections and estimates, leading to policy blind spots and inefficient planning. With a rapidly growing population and evolving socio-economic challenges, the absence of up-to-date, verifiable census data has hindered effective governance.

President Tinubu emphasized the critical importance of accurate data, stating:

"Without a reliable census, we cannot effectively plan for employment, agriculture, and food security. Many national challenges stem from the lack of precise demographic data."

This renewed focus on data-driven governance signals a major shift in Nigeria’s approach to national planning.

Formation of the Presidential Census Committee

To execute this ambitious initiative, President Tinubu has announced the formation of a Presidential Census Committee tasked with:

• Budgetary Optimization: Ensuring that the census is conducted cost-effectively while aligning with the government’s economic policies.
• Collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC): Integrating census data with the existing national identity database to enhance accuracy.
• Adoption of Biometric and Digital Technologies: Implementing cutting-edge data collection methods to eliminate errors, prevent duplication, and enhance security.

This multi-agency approach is expected to streamline the census process and establish a permanent, verifiable population database for long-term governance.

The Role of the National Population Commission (NPC)

The National Population Commission (NPC), under Chairman Nasir Isa Kwarra, has expressed readiness to conduct the census. The NPC has already:

• Completed Enumeration Area Demarcation across the country.
• Acquired 760,000+ digital data collection devices for enhanced accuracy.
• Trained personnel in the use of AI-powered biometric systems to ensure transparency.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio reinforced the urgency of this initiative, stating:

"It is a national embarrassment that we do not know our exact population. This census will correct that and provide the foundation for proper governance."

The National Assembly’s backing is expected to accelerate legislative approvals and ensure adequate funding.

Key Benefits of a Digital National Census

1. Precision in Policy Formulation

Accurate census data enables the government to develop targeted policies in healthcare, education, employment, and urban planning.

2. Equitable Resource Allocation

Reliable population statistics will ensure fair distribution of resources, infrastructure projects, and government programs.

3. Strengthening National Security

A comprehensive database will enhance security planning, helping authorities combat crime and manage migration more effectively.

4. Economic Growth and Investment

Businesses and investors will gain access to dependable demographic data, facilitating informed decision-making and fostering economic expansion.

5. Electoral and Administrative Reforms

A well-executed census will support transparent electoral processes, helping Nigeria refine its voter registration system and improve governance efficiency.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

While this initiative is a significant step forward, challenges such as funding constraints, logistical difficulties, and public skepticism must be addressed. The government must prioritize transparency, ensure citizen participation, and leverage global best practices to deliver a credible, tamper-proof census.

President Tinubu’s push for a digital, biometric-based national census marks a historic milestone in Nigeria’s governance. This initiative, backed by advanced technology, inter-agency collaboration, and strong legislative support, is set to reshape national planning, economic policies, and public service delivery. If successfully executed, this census will not only correct past demographic inaccuracies but also serve as a cornerstone for Nigeria’s long-term development and stability.