Nigeria’s Census Gets Boost As UNFPA Adviser Returns

The National Population Commission (NPC) has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting Nigeria’s long-awaited Population and Housing Census with the return of Dr. Collins Opiyo as Chief Technical Adviser (CTA).

NPC Chairman, Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, welcomed Dr Opiyo’s reappointment during a meeting with United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) officials, led by Deputy Country Representative Koessan Kuawu, at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

Kwarra described Opiyo’s return as a significant boost to the census preparations, emphasising that his expertise had been instrumental in developing the Census Strategy Document before the exercise was postponed in April 2023.

He expressed confidence that the technical support provided by UNFPA would help deliver a successful biometric census.

“We want the census to be conducted this year, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken steps to align the census budget with current financial realities,” Kwarra said, adding that a presidential proclamation for the census was expected soon.

UNFPA’s Deputy Representative, Kuawu, commended NPC’s leadership for ensuring that the census remains a national priority.

He assured the Commission of the agency’s continued support in making the census a reference point for other countries.

Dr Opiyo, who first served as CTA from December 2021 to March 2024, expressed enthusiasm about resuming his role, stating, “I am back home. I never left. I was brought back to finish the assignment I was sent earlier.”

He underscored Nigeria’s opportunity to be among the first nations to conduct a census under the 2030 round, setting an example for others.

NPC Federal Commissioners and senior officials at the meeting praised Opiyo’s reappointment, describing him as a seasoned professional who would provide the necessary guidance for a successful census.

Dr Opiyo’s return marks a renewed push for Nigeria’s first biometric census, with the NPC and UNFPA working closely to ensure its successful implementation.