The Chairman of the National Population Commission, NPC, Nasir Isa Kwarra, has said that Nigeria’s long-overdue national census will be conducted in 2025.

Kwarra made this announcement during the 2024 Anniversary of the Nairobi Summit on the International Conference on Population and Development, ICPD, on Thursday in Abuja.

According to him, the delay in conducting the census has affected Nigeria’s ability to assess population needs and allocate resources, especially in rural and underserved areas.

“This gap in accurate population data poses challenges in tailoring reproductive health services and interventions to specific demographic groups, ultimately undermining progress toward reducing maternal mortality and improving access to family planning,” Kwarra stated.

Nigeria last conducted a population census in 2006, despite the United Nations’ recommendation for countries to hold one every 10 years.

The census exercise, scheduled for 2023, was postponed two times under administration of the former President Muhammadu Buhari, which opted to allow the incoming government to oversee the process.

The NPC chair stated that the lack of up-to-date population data has significantly impacted decision-making across various sectors.

He underscored the significance of accurate data in driving social progress and inclusivity.

“The major setback Nigeria faces is the delay in conducting a population and housing census, which is fundamental for informed decision-making.

“We are gathered in the spirit of a shared commitment to progress, inclusivity, and the empowerment of individuals, particularly women and young people.

“Our focus is on advancing sexual and reproductive health, eliminating gender-based violence (GBV), and promoting equal opportunities for everyone in our nation,” he said.