President Tinubu Inaugurates High-Level Committee for 2025 National Census
Abuja, April 16, 2025 — In a significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s data infrastructure, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inaugurated a Presidential Committee to oversee preparations for the forthcoming National Population and Housing Census. The inauguration, held at the State House in Abuja, marks a pivotal move to ensure the credibility, accuracy, and timeliness of Nigeria’s next census.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, President Tinubu underscored the importance of the census for national development. He charged the Committee to submit an interim report within three weeks, outlining funding readiness and a realistic timeline for the exercise.
“You cannot budget if you do not know how many we are,” the President emphasized, highlighting the importance of accurate demographic data in shaping effective policies, ensuring equitable resource distribution, and driving economic planning.
Key Mandates of the Committee:
- Review the existing census budget
- Recommend viable funding strategies, both domestic and international
- Propose a practical and credible census date
- Ensure inter-agency coordination and stakeholder engagement
- Promote a technology-driven enumeration process
President Tinubu emphasized the need for a modern, digital approach to data collection, incorporating biometrics and digital tools to enhance transparency and accuracy. He noted that the last census was conducted in 2006, nearly two decades ago, and that updated data is essential for addressing pressing challenges in food security, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and more.
Leadership and Commitment
Senator Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, will chair the Committee. In his remarks, he reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to delivering actionable recommendations within the stipulated deadline, despite global economic headwinds.
Bagudu echoed the President’s call for innovative thinking and resourcefulness, saying, “Even in harsh conditions, we must deliver.” He noted signs of progress under President Tinubu’s leadership, including improved foreign exchange stability and a positive economic outlook.
Minister of Information, Alhaji Muhammed Idris Malagi, emphasized the foundational role of reliable data in governance, asserting that an accurate census is indispensable for effective planning across all sectors.
Collaboration and Preparedness
Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC) and Secretary of the Committee, assured Nigerians of the Commission’s readiness. He reported ongoing preparations, including stakeholder consultations and technical groundwork to ensure a smooth and credible enumeration process.
Kwarra reiterated the NPC’s commitment to leveraging technology to produce verifiable, high-quality data that will support national development goals.
Committee Members
The eight-member Committee includes:
- Senator Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning (Chair)
- Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, Chairman, National Population Commission (Secretary)
- Mr. Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy
- Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS)
- Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, Director General, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC)
- Hakeem Muri Okunola, Principal Private Secretary to the President
- Mrs. Nathan-Marsh, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Administration and Operations
This inauguration follows President Tinubu’s earlier directive, issued on February 24, 2025, calling for a comprehensive review of the census budget in alignment with Nigeria’s current fiscal realities.
Looking Ahead
As the countdown to Nigeria’s first digital and biometric-driven census begins, the nation watches with anticipation. The Tinubu administration’s commitment to data-driven governance signals a promising future for inclusive development, strategic planning, and sustainable growth.
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