LIVE UPDATES
The National Population Commission (NPC) has highlighted Nigeria's inadequate data collection practices in relation to the theme of the 2024 World Population Day.
During a press conference in Abuja, NPC Chairman Nasir Isa Kwarra emphasized that relying on outdated information from 18 years ago could lead to misguided policy decisions and planning.
The last population census in Nigeria was conducted in 2006, and Kwarra stressed the importance of timely and comprehensive data from censuses to inform decisions and improve lives.
Kwarra also emphasized the significance of empowering women with information and services to manage their fertility, which could result in reduced maternal mortality and improved child survival.
He called for the use of modern technology in future censuses to generate reliable data for addressing the diverse needs of the population.
Furthermore, Kwarra advocated strengthening of data-generating institutions, securing adequate funding for data-collection exercises, and establishing a legislative framework to support timely censuses and the use of data in policy decisions.
He urged Nigeria to take a leading role in championing improved data collection practices.
