The Chairman of the National Population Commission, Nasir Kwarra, has announced plans to conduct Nigeria’s long-overdue population and housing census in 2025, marking nearly two decades since the last census was carried out in 2006.
Kwarra disclosed this during the 2024 anniversary of the Nairobi Summit on the International Conference on Population and Development, held in Abuja on Thursday.
“A major setback that we face is the delay in conducting a Population and Housing Census. A reliable and accurate census is fundamental for good decision making,” he stated. “But the government, at the highest level, is committed to conducting a census, and we believe it will take place next year.”
This announcement comes 18 years after Nigeria’s last census in 2006, despite the United Nations’ recommendation that countries should conduct population counts every 10 years.
The planned census had initially been scheduled for 2023 but was postponed during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. The delay was attributed to the need to allow the incoming administration to take ownership of the process.
Speaking at the event, Kwarra emphasised the significant consequences of the delay, particularly its impact on informed decision-making and effective resource allocation.
He underscored the necessity of accurate data for addressing pressing challenges in rural and underserved areas.
Kwarra highlighted how the lack of timely censuses had impeded Nigeria’s progress in advancing sexual and reproductive health rights, eliminating gender-based violence, and fostering inclusivity.
“We are gathered in the spirit of a shared commitment to progress, inclusivity, and the empowerment of individuals, particularly women and young people,” he said.
“Our focus is on advancing sexual and reproductive health, eliminating gender-based violence, and promoting equal opportunities for everyone in our nation. We must continue our march to address these challenges head-on.
“For many in our communities—particularly women, girls, and young people—sexual and reproductive health rights remain out of reach. This is not just a health issue; it is also an issue of social and economic justice. When individuals are denied the ability to make choices about their health and lives, it limits their potential, reduces opportunities, and impacts society as a whole,” Kwarra added.
The founder of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, Toyin Saraki, also spoke at the event, pledging continued advocacy and policy support to further the International Conference on Population and Development agenda.
Saraki called for collaboration among private, philanthropic, and multi-sector stakeholders to accelerate progress toward achieving the initiative’s goals.
