The federal government has rejected the N942 billion proposal by the National Population Commission (NPC) for the conduct of the national housing and population census. The President, during a high-level meeting with NPC officials on Monday, February 24, 2025, at the State House, emphasized the need for cost-cutting measures, including the deployment of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to reduce personnel expenses.
Sources close to the discussions revealed that President Tinubu, while committed to conducting the census, insisted on a more fiscally responsible approach. “The main issue from that meeting was that the money they were proposing was quite substantial—around N942 billion, almost N1 trillion. The President felt that was too much and directed that a committee be set up to review the budget and bring the cost down,” a senior government official disclosed on condition of anonymity.
The President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the development in a statement titled ‘Nigeria Moves Closer to Fresh Census, President Tinubu to Set Up Committee.’ Tinubu was quoted as saying, “This stop-and-go activity on the census cannot work with me. So, we better have a definite path. I will set up a committee for you to look at the issues critically and do a source and application of resources. Where can we get help, and what can we lift before we embark on proclamation?”
Tinubu’s insistence on cost efficiency was further highlighted by his suggestion to leverage NYSC members for the census exercise. “He was even suggesting that they recruit youth corps members to make it cheaper,” another insider revealed. This innovative approach could significantly reduce the financial burden of hiring additional personnel while engaging young Nigerians in a critical national project.
However, details about the composition and mandate of the proposed committee remain unclear. “We have heard nothing about that committee for now. It is still being put together as we speak. But the agencies concerned will be on it,” a third source explained.
During the meeting, President Tinubu underscored the importance of accurate census data for national planning and development. “We must ascertain who we are, how many we are, and how to manage our data. Without an accurate census, we can’t successfully plan for employment, agriculture, and food sovereignty. So many problems come up without accurate data,” he stated. He also emphasized the need for biometric capturing, including facial and voice recognition, to enhance the integrity of the process.
The President further noted that reliable demographic data would improve the effectiveness of government initiatives, such as the distribution of fertilizers and other agricultural incentives. “We should work on our financial muscle well in place to lift our burden before we go and meet development partners for the census. We should work out the figures before discussing the role of development partners,” he added.
Nigeria’s last census was conducted in November 2006, and subsequent attempts to hold another have been plagued by delays, logistical challenges, and funding constraints. The 2023 census, initially planned under the Buhari administration, was postponed due to a combination of factors, including insecurity, the COVID-19 pandemic, and political transitions. Despite investments in advanced technologies like digital mapping and biometric capture, the NPC has struggled to finalize preparations.
With President Tinubu’s intervention, there is renewed hope for a cost-effective and efficient census. However, the road ahead remains fraught with challenges, including securing adequate funding and ensuring nationwide participation. As the Tinubu administration works to balance fiscal responsibility with the urgent need for accurate demographic data, all eyes will be on the newly proposed committee to deliver a viable roadmap for this critical national exercise.
