The Federal Government has restated its resolve to conduct a national population census that meets international standards, emphasising transparency, accuracy, and broad collaboration among relevant agencies.
Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, gave the assurance during a courtesy visit by Aminu Yusuf, Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), and his management team.
Idris noted that reliable population data is essential for effective governance, adding that development planning cannot succeed without accurate demographic information.
The minister said the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains focused on delivering a census that commands confidence both locally and globally. He explained that the process will be driven by strong public communication and cooperation across government institutions.
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Idris assured the NPC of the full support of his ministry and its agencies in mobilising citizens and promoting nationwide awareness once the President formally announces a census date.
He listed agencies such as the National Orientation Agency, Nigerian Television Authority, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Voice of Nigeria, and the News Agency of Nigeria as key partners in the mobilisation effort.
According to the minister, the Federal Government is deliberately emphasising due process, legal requirements, and credibility rather than rushing the exercise.
He stressed that a presidential proclamation remains the legal authority for conducting the census and said all necessary steps are being carefully aligned to ensure compliance with global best practices.
He also encouraged the NPC to continue using government-owned media platforms to sustain public education on the census, while reaffirming his ministry’s responsibility to promote government policies and programmes in the national interest.
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Earlier, Aminu Yusuf, NPC Chairman Aminu praised the Ministry of Information and National Orientation for its ongoing support and leadership in public engagement ahead of the postponed census.
He said the commission remains prepared for the exercise, noting that operational systems, logistics, ICT infrastructure, and personnel are being continuously improved to ensure transparency and efficiency once a new date is announced.
Yusuf further requested continued access to government media outlets to strengthen public awareness of census participation, civil registration, and vital statistics, describing public trust as critical to effective population management in Nigeria.
