The Nigerian Government has reaffirmed its determination to hold a national census in line with international standards both credibly and transparently, emphasizing that it will not compromise due process in an effort to rush the exercise.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the Chairman of the National Population Commission, Dr. Aminu Yusuf, and his management team.
He stated that precise population statistics are essential for effective national planning, noting that meaningful development cannot be achieved without dependable demographic data.
“I want to reaffirm the commitment of the Federal Government led by President Bola Tinubu to delivering a credible, transparent, and internationally acceptable national census, anchored on effective public communication and inter-agency collaboration.
“I want to assure the NPC that my ministry and its agencies stand fully ready to mobilize Nigerians and drive nationwide advocacy whenever the President proclaims a census date,” Idris stated.
Idris explained that some organizations, including the National Orientation Agency (NOA), the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), the Voice of Nigeria (VON), and the News
The Agency of News (NAN) would be mobilized to carry out nationwide public awareness campaigns.
Idris further explained that the census is legally grounded in a presidential proclamation and assured that all procedures were being coordinated to adhere to international standards.
He encouraged the NPC not to relent in using government-owned media outlets to create sustainable public awareness about the exercise.
Yusuf had earlier applauded the ministry for its assistance in mobilizing the public in preparation for the delayed census.
He stated that the commission is operationally prepared, emphasizing that its systems, logistics, ICT infrastructure, and staff are constantly being improved to guarantee productivity and transparency when a new date is set.
Yusuf also urged continued access to government media outlets to enhance public awareness of census participation and civil registration, emphasizing that public trust is crucial for effective population management in Nigeria.