After nearly two decades of anticipation, Nigeria is moving closer to conducting a long-overdue population and housing census.
The federal government has allocated an additional N1.1 billion in the 2025 budget for the exercise, underscoring its commitment to updating the nation’s demographic data. This represents a significant increase from the N693.3 million set aside in 2024.
However, critical questions linger: will this renewed financial commitment overcome the logistical and operational hurdles that derailed previous attempts?
The 2025 budget outlines specific provisions for census activities, including N78 million for maintaining the National Population Data Bank and geo-portal, N25 million for the second census pretest, N10 million for census awareness programs in schools, and N247.3 million for nationwide publicity campaigns to encourage participation.
N40 million for research on special populations, such as migrant farmers and the homeless.
To sustain public awareness, an additional N90 million has been allocated for commemorative events, including World Population Day and Population Census Day.
Nigeria’s last census in 2006 fell short of the United Nations’ recommendation for population counts every decade. Without updated data, policymakers have relied on outdated estimates, complicating efforts to address pressing developmental needs.
In May 2023, the National Population Commission (NPC) announced plans for a census.
However, the exercise was postponed indefinitely due to funding and logistical challenges. Costs escalated from an initial N532.7 billion to N869 billion, with N200 billion already spent on preparations by 2024.
Experts warn that delaying the census further will undermine Nigeria’s ability to plan effectively.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has highlighted the significance of accurate population data for national development.
In June 2023, the UNFPA urged Nigeria to prioritise the exercise, stating, “A census is essential for effective governance, equitable resource allocation, and planning for sustainable development.”
Similarly, Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, Chairman of the NPC, expressed optimism about the census’s transformative potential.
“This data will transform how we plan for our people,” he remarked during a December 2024 briefing with the senate president.
Development expert Adedotun Amori also emphasised the critical role of accurate demographic data. “Without reliable data, we are planning blindly. A comprehensive census is the cornerstone for equitable development,” he said.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has pledged the National Assembly’s support for the census.
During the December 2024 meeting with NPC chairman Kwarra, Akpabio described the lack of updated population figures as a “national embarrassment.”
Senator Abdul Ningi, chairman of the Senate Committee on National Identity and Population, noted that census materials, including Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), are secured at the Central Bank of Nigeria, showcasing the NPC’s readiness for the exercise.
While the additional funding is a step forward, questions remain about the government’s capacity to overcome the logistical challenges that have hindered past censuses.
The success of the 2025 census depends on the approval and execution of the budget, currently under review by the National Assembly.
If implemented effectively, the census could give Nigeria the accurate demographic insights needed to tackle its challenges and shape a more informed future.
Beyond counting people, the census is an opportunity to lay a solid foundation for equitable development and sustainable progress.
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