The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a credible, technology‑driven national census, stressing that accuracy will take precedence over a rushed timeline. Speaking at a meeting with the National Population Commission (NPC) leadership, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris emphasized that reliable population data is essential for effective planning in employment, agriculture, food security, and social services. He warned that inaccurate figures undermine development efforts and policy execution.
President Bola Tinubu, while addressing NPC officials, underscored the need for a biometric‑based census that captures facial and voice recognition, integrating the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) into the process. He noted that without a precise headcount, government incentives such as fertilizer distribution cannot reach the right beneficiaries, and he has set up a high‑level committee to align the census budget with current financial realities.
The government has allocated ₦12.78 billion in the 2026 budget for census activities, covering digital mapping, biometric registration, logistics, and public‑awareness campaigns. Newly appointed NPC Chairman Aminu Yusuf pledged to deploy modern ICT infrastructure and continuous staff training to ensure transparency and credibility once a census date is proclaimed.
Stakeholders, including civil‑society groups and traditional leaders, are being mobilised through government‑owned media to build public trust. The NPC is also working with development partners to secure additional funding, while urging Nigerians to participate fully when the exercise rolls out.