NPC working tirelessly to conduct census – Chairman

The Chairman, National Population Commission, Mr Isa Kwarra, says the commission is working tirelessly to conduct the forthcoming National Population and Housing Census.

Kwarra disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja, saying that it was in line with the Federal Government’s drive to address Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.

According to him, the exercise will generate inclusive and up-to-date data for evidence-based planning and policymaking.

“As the leading data-generating agency in Nigeria, the commission is committed to its mandate of generating reliable and acceptable demographic data for national planning and sustainable development.”

He also appealed to all Nigerians to maintain peace, calm and to shun the planned nationwide protest.

The chairman acknowledged the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly and that the commission emphasised the need to prioritise national stability, peace and security.

“The NPC understands the economic hardships and hunger faced by Nigerians, but urges citizens to give the government time to address these challenges.

“The commission calls on Nigerians to have trust in President Bola Tinubu and give the administration time to deliver on its promises of a better Nigeria.

“The President is not unaware of the various challenges in the country.

“Hence, he is working round the clock to put in place policies and programmes that will deliver to Nigerians the full dividends of democracy within the shortest possible time.”

He highlighted some of the programmes the government had initiated to alleviate the living standards of Nigerians.

They include: Social Investment Programmes (SIPs): Initiatives like N-Power, Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT), and Homegrown School Feeding Programme aim to reduce poverty and unemployment.

“Agriculture and Food Security Initiatives to boost food production, reduce import dependence, and enhance food security.

“Infrastructure development focusing on investments in roads, bridges, airports, and seaports to enhance connectivity and facilitate economic growth.

“The government has also started the Student Loan Scheme for the youths in Nigeria,” Kwarra said.

He, however, urged all Nigerians to remain calm, focused, and avoid actions that might compromise national peace and stability.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that some organisers are gearing up for a nationwide peaceful protest slated for August 1 to 10.

PUNCH Online reported that about N200bn was expended by the Kwara-led NPC, in preparations for the aborted 2023 population and housing census.

The Nigerian Population Commission disclosed on Saturday that it can do little until Tinubu consents to the commencement of the general census.

The population and housing census, initially scheduled for 2022, was postponed by former President Muhammadu Buhari as it coincided with electioneering campaigns for the 2023 general elections.

The exercise was eventually suspended indefinitely by Buhari, a few days before leaving office, stating that he would allow Tinubu to announce new dates for the headcount.

(NAN)