President Bola Tinubu has rejected a proposed N942 billion budget for the upcoming national population and housing census, citing the need for cost-cutting measures. Instead, he suggested deploying National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to reduce personnel expenses.
During a meeting with officials from the National Population Commission (NPC) at the State House, Tinubu emphasized the importance of conducting the census efficiently without excessive costs. He announced plans to establish a committee to review the budget and align it with the government’s financial realities.
A government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that Tinubu considered the proposed amount too high, stating, “He wants the census to happen but insists the cost must come down.” Another source disclosed that the President recommended enlisting NYSC members to further cut costs.
Although the details of the proposed committee remain unclear, Tinubu affirmed that the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) must play a key role in the census planning. He highlighted the need for accurate data to support national planning in areas such as employment, agriculture, and social welfare.
The last census in Nigeria was conducted in 2006, and multiple attempts to hold a new one have been delayed due to funding constraints, security concerns, and political transitions. Despite investments in digital mapping and biometric technology, the process has faced repeated postponements.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, stressed that census data is critical for resource allocation and national development. He noted that various government agencies are collaborating to optimize available data sources.
The NPC chairman assured that the commission has acquired 760,000 tablets for the exercise, with plans to seek support from development partners once the new census is officially proclaimed.
