Population Commission Blames Gender-Based Violence On Eighteen-Year Census Delay

The Chairman of the National Population Commission, (NPC) Nasir Kwarra on Thursday said Nigeria’s next population and housing census would be conducted in 2025.

Speaking at the 2024 anniversary of the Nairobi Summit on the International Conference on Population and Development held in Abuja, Kwarra said the 2023 census was faced with a major setback.

According to him, the 18-year delay has altered the United Nations’ data recommendation for countries to conduct population counts every 10 years.

Kwarra said the delay has hampered informed decision-making and effective resource allocation across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

He said “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.

“But the government, at the highest level, is committed to conducting a census, and we believe it will take place next year.”

Speaking further Kwarra said accurate data would address pressing issues in rural and underserved areas, adding that the absence of a timely census in Nigeria has hindered progress in advancing sexual and reproductive health rights, eliminating gender-based violence, and promoting inclusivity

“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, 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.”

Population Commission Blames Gender-Based Violence On Eighteen-Year Census Delay is first published on The Whistler Newspaper