Chairman, Senate Committee on Population and National Identity Management, Senator Abdul Ningi has expressed the disappointment over the foot-dragging of the federal government to give the nod for the National Population Commission, NPC to conduct the Housing and Population Census since 2006, reports page3news.com.ng
He however called on President Bola Tinubu led administration to give its nod for the National Population Commission, NPC, to conduct the census exercise.
Noting that the NPC have done the essentials to embark on the Census exercise, the lawmaker said the earlier the nod is given the Commission to conduct the census exercise, the better for the country.
Page3news.con.ng reports that Sen Ningi speaking as special guest of honour at the 11th Annual Population Lecture Series, (APLS) 2023, in Abuja, advocated reasons for the exercise to be conducted as soon as possible.
Lamenting the inability to conduct the Housing and Population Census since 2006, Senator Ningi emphasised the need for a change of narrative; especially as data generated from the exercise helps the government to plan for the wellbeing of the citizens.
Chairman, National Population Commission, NPC, Hon Nasir Isa Kwarra speaking earlier in his welcome address, said over the years, APLS has served as an invaluable platform for the Commission to delve into the intricate tapestry of demographic dynamics that shape our society. It has been instrumental in fostering informed dialogues, sparking innovative ideas, and catalyzing actions that contribute to the well-being and progress of our nation.
“APLS is a platform to foster informed dialogues, spark innovative ideas, and catalyze actions that contribute to the well-being and progress of Nigeria.
The highpoint of the lecture was the launch of the compendium of the Annual Population Lecture Series 1 to 10.
“Over the years, the Annual Population Lecture Series has served as an invaluable platform for us to delve into the intricate tapestry of demographic dynamics that shape our society. It has been instrumental in fostering informed dialogues, sparking innovative ideas, and catalyzing actions that contribute to the well-being and progress of our nation.
Our nation stands at a critical juncture, where the understanding of population trends and their implications on various facets of development is more pertinent than ever. Nigeria’s population growth, coupled with shifting demographic patterns, presents both opportunities and challenges that demand our focused attention, strategic planning, and collaborative action.
Today, as we convene once again, our objectives remain steadfast: to deliberate on pressing issues, explore sustainable solutions, and fortify our commitment towards a future where every Nigerian can thrive. Our discussions will encompass a wide array of topics, from demographic shifts and their socio-economic impacts to the imperative of inclusive policies and programs that address the diverse needs of our population.
Furthermore, I am particularly elated about the launch of the Compendium on APLS 1-10, a testament to our collective efforts in preserving the wealth of insights garnered over the years. This compendium serves as a valuable repository of knowledge, encapsulating the evolution of our discussions and providing a roadmap for future endeavors,” said Nasir Isa Kwarra.
He urged the participants to actively engage, share their perspectives, and seize the opportunity of the lecture to contribute meaningfully to the dialogue. “Let us harness the power of collective wisdom to chart a course that fosters sustainable development, leaving no one behind.”
The NPC chairman however expressed the Commission’s appreciation to the country representative UNFPA, Dr Gifty Addico and the UNFPA for always standing by the Commission whenever beckoned upon.