President Bola Tinubu has rejected a N942 billion proposal from the National Population Commission (NPC) for the upcoming national housing and population census, insisting that significant cost-cutting measures be implemented.
At a meeting with NPC officials at the State House, Tinubu stressed the need for the census to be conducted within the government’s current financial limitations.
He proposed the deployment of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to reduce personnel costs, while promising to set up a committee to reassess the census budget.
The President expressed support for the census but noted that the proposed cost of nearly N1 trillion was excessive.
He emphasised that the government must ensure that the financial burden was reduced before proceeding with any plans.
“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,” Tinubu said, stressing the importance of reliable data for national planning.
The President also highlighted the need for biometric data capture, including facial and voice recognition, to enhance the accuracy and transparency of the census process.
He further noted that government incentives, such as fertiliser distribution, could benefit from more precise demographic data.
The census, which has faced delays since its last occurrence in 2006, continues to be fraught with logistical and funding challenges, including insecurity in certain regions and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tinubu’s administration has yet to finalise plans, with questions remaining over the timing, methodology, and inclusion of displaced populations.
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, indicated that census data would be crucial for future planning and resource distribution.
However, it remains unclear when the census will proceed, with ongoing discussions about the necessary resources and support.
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