Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Nasir Kwarra, has confirmed that Nigeria will conduct its much-awaited population and housing census in 2025. This announcement comes nearly two decades after the last census in 2006. Speaking at the 2024 anniversary of the Nairobi Summit on the International Conference on Population and Development held in Abuja, Kwarra stated, “A reliable and accurate census is fundamental for good decision-making.”

Kwarra explained that the government is committed to ensuring the census takes place next year, following significant delays. The previous attempt to conduct the census in 2023 was postponed, mainly due to the outgoing administration’s decision to allow the new government to take the lead on the process.

The delay in census-taking has had serious consequences for the country, particularly in terms of data-driven decision-making and resource allocation. Kwarra noted that Nigeria’s inability to conduct timely censuses has also hindered progress in addressing critical issues like sexual and reproductive health, gender-based violence, and inclusivity.

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Emphasizing the social and economic impact, Kwarra pointed out that many vulnerable groups, especially women, girls, and young people, face challenges in accessing their sexual and reproductive health rights. “This is not just a health issue; it is an issue of social and economic justice,” he said. Kwarra’s remarks highlighted the importance of accurate and timely data for tackling these pressing societal issues and ensuring equal opportunities for all Nigerians.

During the event, Toyin Saraki, founder of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, expressed her continued commitment to advocating for the advancement of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) agenda. Saraki urged various sectors, including private, philanthropic, and government bodies, to collaborate in accelerating progress towards achieving the ICPD goals.