The Senate has directed the National Population Commission (NPC) to ensure a population census is conducted in 2025, citing the 19-year gap since the last one.
During a budget defence session with NPC Chairman Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, Senator Diket Plang (APC, Plateau Central) expressed concern over the lack of reliable population data, stating, “As a Nigerian and leader, I feel bad that our country lacks credible population statistics.”
Senator Olalere Oyewumi (PDP, Osun West) emphasized the urgency, saying, “The 2025 budget for the NPC must prioritize the population census. Delaying it until 2026 will push it too close to the 2027 general elections.”
The NPC proposed an N18.2 billion budget for 2025, with N17.7 billion allocated for capital projects. The Senate urged the commission to avoid previous delays and ensure the census is conducted this year to provide updated demographic data.
