President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inaugurated a high-level Presidential Committee on the forthcoming National Population and Housing Census, underscoring the administration’s commitment to conducting a credible and data-driven headcount to support national development.
The announcement was made through a statement issued by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, who revealed that the newly constituted committee has been mandated to submit an interim report within three weeks.
Speaking during the inauguration, President Tinubu emphasized the strategic importance of the census in shaping Nigeria’s future. He noted that accurate population data is essential for effective decision-making and planning across critical sectors such as healthcare, education, security, and economic development.
“The success of this census will determine how well we are able to plan for the future. It will guide us in deploying resources efficiently and crafting policies that directly address the needs of our people,” the President stated.
The committee is chaired by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, who assured the President of the committee’s readiness to deliver a comprehensive and actionable report within the stipulated timeframe.
Other members of the eight-member committee include:
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The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy
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The Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS)
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The Director General of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC)
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The Principal Secretary to the President
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The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Administration and Operations (Office of the Chief of Staff)
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Two additional senior officials from key planning and data management sectors
The committee will work closely with the National Population Commission (NPC) and other stakeholders to assess readiness, mobilize resources, and recommend strategies for public sensitization and logistical efficiency.
The 2025 census will mark Nigeria’s first population and housing enumeration in nearly two decades, following the last exercise in 2006.
