NPC Affirms Readiness for 2023 Census | Delay Enhances Preparation Efforts

NPC Affirms Readiness for 2023 Census | Delay Enhances Preparation Efforts

The National Population Commission (NPC) has announced its comprehensive readiness to carry out the 2023 population and housing census.

Clifford Zirra, the NPC federal commissioner in Adamawa, conveyed that the commission is awaiting directives from President Bola Tinubu to initiate the census process, as reported by NAN.

As per TheCable, the federal government, under the previous administration, had announced the postponement of the census in April.

Zirra, addressing reporters in Yola on Wednesday, highlighted that Tinubu expressed satisfaction with the commission’s substantial progress in gearing up for the census. He emphasized the census’s vital role in Nigeria’s future.

He stated, “It furnishes us with precise and current data regarding our population, which is indispensable for effective planning and development.”

He continued, “The data collected during the census will serve as the bedrock for policy formulation, resource allocation, and the execution of various socioeconomic initiatives.”

Acknowledging the federal government’s decision to postpone the census, Zirra emphasized that it has afforded the new administration the opportunity to contribute to the census process. This delay has also enabled the commission to refine its methodologies and systems for conducting the upcoming digital census.

He underscored that the commission has undertaken essential preparations, including demarcation of enumeration areas, trial runs, training of field personnel, and the establishment of widespread ICT infrastructure.

Abubakar Hamma-Adama, the director of NPC in the state, urged the media to continue collaborating with the commission as the census event approaches.

“We deeply appreciate your support and seek your ongoing cooperation during the census once the finalized date is set,” he added, highlighting the pivotal role of publicity and awareness in ensuring the census’s success.