Senate Assures Nigerians: 2024 Census Will Proceed as Scheduled

In a reassuring statement, the Senate has affirmed that the eagerly anticipated population and housing census, scheduled for November this year, will proceed as planned. During the screening of 17 out of 19 commissioner-nominees for the National Population Commission (NPC), Senator Abdul Ningi emphasized the significance of the upcoming census.

Senator Ningi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Identity and Population, highlighted the credentials of the nominees, many of whom are returning for a second term. He underlined the importance of political will, asserting that Nigeria has not conducted a census in the last 11 years, relying on estimated figures since the 2006 census.

The 2022 census plan, initially proposed by the former President Muhammadu Buhari administration, was rescheduled for 2023 and later suspended indefinitely. President Bola Tinubu has since pledged support for the census, emphasizing its crucial role in national planning.

Senator Ningi stressed that the success of the census relies on the President’s declaration, urging political will and commitment. He stated that 75% of logistics, including machines and personnel training, are ready, awaiting the official announcement to receive international support.

The Chairman of the National Population Commission, Nasir Kwarra, expressed gratitude for the long-awaited screening, noting the absence of two nominees due to appointments and electoral outcomes.

Sa’adatu Dogon Bauchi, the nominee for Kaduna State, acknowledged President Tinubu’s trust in appointing women as commissioners, assuring that the census will be executed meticulously with a commitment to delivering accurate results.

As the screening process progresses, the nominees are reminded of the vital role they play in conducting the census, essential for laying a developmental plan that aligns with the aspirations of the Nigerian people. The last national census, over a decade ago, underscores the urgency of this unique assignment.