Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Identity and National Population, expressed grave concerns over the lack of reliable population data to effectively plan for Nigeria’s future.
He lamented the reliance on inconsistent population figures by successive administrations, hindering the development of strategic plans.
Addressing a delegation from the National Population Commission led by Chairman Nasir Isa Kwarra, Senator Ningi emphasized, “Public analysts estimate Nigeria’s population to be over 200 million, with some suggesting 220 million and others even claiming over 250 million.
“These are all mere guesstimates. The NPC is constitutionally mandated to provide accurate population data, and an Act of Parliament further reinforces this responsibility.
“If we aspire to join the ranks of nations that make a global impact, we must understand our actions and our capabilities. Without knowing who we are and how many we are, we cannot continue to operate based on guesswork.“
He stressed the importance of conducting a population census to prepare for the future.
Senator Babangida Hussaini, a member of the committee and Senator representing Jigawa Northwest, emphasized the need for measures to effectively police Nigeria’s 927,000 sq km territory to curb illegal immigration.
“Today, our borders are wide open. These issues are crucial for population growth, urban planning, education, security, and water resource management.“
Saidat Olayinka Oladunjiye, President Bola Tinubu’s nominee as NPC Commissioner for Lagos State, assured the committee of comprehensive guidelines to guide the NPC towards a successful enumeration exercise.
She explained that the commission would implement the Geographic Information System (GIS), stating that “the upcoming population census will be one of the best in the country because, as you rightly pointed out, data is lifeblood.“
