Insecurity Will Not Affect Quality Of Census, Says Commission Chairman

Nigeria's National Population Commission (NPC) says the insecurity in some parts of the country will not affect the quality of the 2023 census.

The commission also said the census will be fully digitalised as it has already commenced using digital maps for counting houses.

This is according to the Chairman of the Commission, Nasir Isa Kwarra, during a courtesy visit to the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero in his palace on Monday.

Kwarra also said NPC has so far demarcated 773 Local Government areas in the country, with only one left to complete the exercise.

“We are here on an advocacy visit as part of our preparations for the 2023 census due to the critical role of traditional institutions.

"Preparations for the census have already been intensified, and despite the security challenges in some places, the preparations have gone far across the federation.

“So far, we have already demarcated 773 Local Government areas and only one is left.

"We have developed digital maps using high technology, and by April next year, when the census will hold, everything will be fully digital.

"We have counted a number of houses and we are testing the other instruments of the census and huge success is being recorded so far,” he revealed.

Kwarra sought the help of the Emir in disseminating the information to all other traditional rulers down to the local level across the state to ensure the success of the exercise.

On his part, the Emir called on the people of the state to give maximum support towards the success of the exercise.

“Census is very important as it helps the government in planning policies and provision of basic amenities to people.

"I assure you that NPC will be supported in all its activities in all the five emirates in the state,” Emir Bayero assured.

He also called on people to give their maximum support and ensure everyone is counted so the state could maintain its position as the most populated state in the country.