NEW CENSUS LONG OVERDUE IN NIGERIA – Joshua Shobiye
It is high time for a population census in Nigeria as the need is inevitable for adequate economic, political, and development planning of our nation. Data from the last population census in 2006 is not sufficient enough to postulate efficient and effective national programmes.
In 2006, the National Population Commission (NPC) conducted the last population census in Nigeria with an estimated population of 180 million people. This number makes Nigeria the most populous country in Africa, interestingly, Nigeria still retains the same position 16 years on the roll. Thereafter, arguments have been generated from many interest groups across the globe, believing that the reported estimated figure is far below the actual population. It is a significant concern that has affected Nigeria’s economy and development plans.
Yearning for a new population census is long overdue after 16 years. There has been an attempt by various past governments to embark on this exercise but without success. Early this year, the Federal Government promised to carry out a national census after the general elections in 2023. How well will the promise be fulfilled, considering what is attached to it in many ways?
Having a precise and accurate population is very important to any country. Census enables a country to know the number of people living in its territory at a given time. Census gives an idea of the number of people in each state (both rural and urban areas). A nation with an accurate population census will make an informed decision based on the current situation as per the data available. With an accurate population census, there will be adequate control of available resources. Resource distribution and allocation will be made based on ready data.
Census data is essential to investors both local and foreign. Data helps business decisions and aids the boost the economy of any nation. Census attracts the attention of foreign grants and development support. Essentially, Nigeria as a developing nation enjoys support from foreign donors such as United Nations (UN), World Health Organisations (WHO), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank (WB), African Development Bank (ADF), and many more. The availability of an accurate census will suggest areas of focus for development and how best foreign donors can come to our aid.
Politically, the census is most needed in Nigeria at the moment as there will be a change in government by 2023. The new government needs the census to set a realistic agenda. When there is an inappropriate census, it tends to frustrate the agenda already set by the government and make it seems ineffective, inexperienced, and incompetent.
Noteworthy to mention how technology can help to achieve this in no-distance time and with a meager and effective budget. Relevant technology can be used with trained personnel taking the data and submission on the spot without duplication. This was achieved with Bank Verification Number (BVN) a few years ago by ensuring one number was allocated to every individual. This can also be achieved for the new population census in Nigeria.