Category: News

  • FG disburses N1.3 billion grant to empower small business owners in Borno

    FG disburses N1.3 billion grant to empower small business owners in Borno

    The Federal Government has disbursed N1.3 billion through the Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme (PCGS) to support small business owners in Borno State.

    The scheme, implemented in collaboration with the Borno State Government and the Bank of Industry (BoI), aims to empower nano-businesses across the state, stimulating economic growth and creating vital opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

    Governor Babagana Zulum, represented by the Permanent Secretary for Establishment and Service Matters, Abubakar Muhammed, announced the disbursement during the Federal Government’s town hall meeting on loans and grants in Maiduguri on Friday, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

     “The Federal Government has disbursed N1.3 billion to support the growth of small enterprises in Borno. 

    “The amount was disbursed under the Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme (PCGS), to bolster nano-businesses in 27 local government areas of the state,” the NAN report read in part. 

    The grant is part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to rebuild and stabilize Borno in the aftermath of the insurgency. It specifically targets small-scale traders, artisans, ICT operators, eatery owners, and transporters across 27 local government areas of the state.

    According to the NAN report, each eligible beneficiary has been awarded N50,000 to help enhance their business operations and improve their capacity to thrive amid a challenging economic climate.

    More Insights  

    Mr. Muktar Musa, the Bank of Industry (BoI) Manager in Maiduguri, disclosed that the Federal Government has disbursed over N40 billion out of the approved N50 billion to support nano-businesses across all 774 local government areas nationwide.

    He further explained that the Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme (PCGS), launched as part of the post-subsidy recovery efforts, is aimed at reaching one million beneficiaries.

    • Musa provided an update on the scheme’s progress, noting that N10 billion had been allocated to the North-West, N6.6 billion to the North-Central, N5.9 billion to the North-East, and N4.8 billion to the South-East, benefiting a total of 96,000 individuals across 95 local government areas.
    • He also highlighted that the initiative has extended support to 117,000 beneficiaries in 123 local government areas in the South-South, and 146,000 recipients across 137 local government areas in the South-West.
    • Notably, women and youth account for 70% of the beneficiaries, while 10% are persons with disabilities, 5% are senior citizens, and 15% belong to other demographic groups.

    To date, the program has empowered 810,945 Nigerians, reinforcing the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting local economies and vulnerable populations.

    Musa emphasized that beneficiaries were selected based on criteria including possession of a Bank Verification Number (BVN), National Identification Number (NIN), and evidence of a registered business premise.

     

  • UK aims to attract 50 million international visitors by 2030

    UK aims to attract 50 million international visitors by 2030

    The United Kingdom is aiming to draw 50 million international visitors annually by 2030, a key target to strengthen its position as a leading global tourist destination.

    This goal is part of a new effort to expand and enhance the country’s tourism sector, which officials say will also contribute to economic growth.

    According to a report from TravelBiz, the UK’s government is focused on increasing tourism numbers, expanding beyond London, and ensuring the sector’s long-term growth.

    The country’s tourism minister, Chris Bryant, revealed the plans during the Tourism Alliance conference in London.

    He highlighted the importance of the tourism industry in driving economic expansion and outlined several initiatives to help meet the ambitious target.

    New council to lead tourism expansion 

    One of the central elements of the new plan is the formation of a Visitor Economy Advisory Council, which will be co-chaired by Minister Bryant, TravelBiz informs.

    It is noted that the council will play a key role in coordinating efforts between the government and industry stakeholders.

    Bryant emphasized the need for collaboration to achieve the target and develop a comprehensive National Visitor Economy Strategy, which will be unveiled next autumn.

    “The UK has great potential as a top tourist destination, and we must work together to make that happen,” Bryant said. The council will be tasked with supporting the development of the strategy, which will outline the specific steps needed to increase international tourism and ensure benefits are felt across the country. 

    Efforts to promote regional tourism 

    While London remains a major draw for tourists, the UK government is committed to expanding tourism opportunities beyond the capital.

    • The new strategy aims to promote tourism across other regions and cities, offering a more diverse experience for visitors. To achieve this, the government plans to invest in several areas.
    • According to reports, enhanced marketing campaigns will be launched to showcase the UK’s varied cultural offerings, while tourist boards will be reformed to better support regional tourism growth.
    • There will also be an increased focus on addressing skills gaps within the sector, with new training programs designed to prepare the workforce for the anticipated increase in visitors.

    Focus on economic growth and global competition 

    Reports inform of tourism’s vital contribution to the UK economy, generating £74 billion annually and accounting for 4% of the country’s Gross Value Added (GVA).

    • With 38 million international visitors in 2023, the sector is already showing signs of recovery after the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • However, officials are hopeful that the sector can reach new heights, surpassing the 41 million visitors recorded in 2019.
    • The government believes that tourism’s growth will not only benefit the economy but also create jobs and support businesses across the country.
    • Expanding the tourism market to include more regions is seen as a way to share economic benefits more evenly, ensuring that the positive impacts of tourism are felt throughout the UK.

    Impact on visitors and the travel industry 

    For international visitors, reports supply that the government’s plan promises more travel opportunities and access to a wider range of destinations.

    • As part of the effort to promote regional tourism, visitors can expect to explore new areas beyond London and experience the unique cultural offerings of the UK’s other cities and regions.
    • To support this growth, the government also plans to improve infrastructure and services. Visitors can look forward to better travel facilities, smoother transportation, and enhanced services, all aimed at improving the overall tourist experience.
    • TravelBiz further informs that the UK is expected to streamline its visa processes, making it easier and more efficient for international travelers to visit the country.
    • This move, as revealed, could simplify the visa application process and provide more straightforward travel options for those looking to visit the UK.

    With collaboration between the government and tourism stakeholders, these initiatives are expected to position the UK as an even more attractive destination for international travelers.

  • Canada pauses new applications for refugee sponsorship program 

    Canada pauses new applications for refugee sponsorship program 

    The Government of Canada has announced a temporary halt on new applications for the Private Sponsorship of Refugees (PSR) Program from Groups of Five and community sponsors.

    This decision, effective from November 29th, 2024, until December 31st, 2025, aims to address the growing backlog of applications and improve processing times for applicants and sponsors.

    In Canada, the “Group of Five” refers to a group of five or more Canadian citizens or permanent residents who come together to privately sponsor a refugee. They are responsible for helping the refugees settle in Canada by providing financial and emotional support for at least one year. 

    Canada’s PSR Program has been helping private groups sponsor refugees for over 40 years, offering them a fresh start and support for integration. However, its growing popularity has led to a surge in applications, causing processing delays. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reports that the increasing backlog is now a significant challenge.

    “Processing times have become increasingly lengthy, creating uncertainty for both refugees and their sponsors,” IRCC said in a statement.

    Challenges faced by the PSR program   

    • The PSR Program, which has been a cornerstone of Canada’s humanitarian immigration efforts, now faces pressures due to the high number of applications.
    • INC reports that the application inventory has grown faster than it can be processed, and the demand for spaces in the program exceeds the current limits set by Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan.
    • As a result, IRCC has decided to suspend new applications from Groups of Five and community sponsors until December 2025. This will allow the system to catch up with the existing workload and improve the predictability of processing times.

    What does the pause mean for sponsors and refugees?   

    • Reports inform that the pause directly impacts Groups of Five and community sponsors, who will not be able to submit new refugee sponsorship applications during the suspension period.
    • However, this decision does not affect applications already in the system.
    • Refugees whose applications have been submitted before November 29th, 2024, will continue to be processed. In addition,
    • Canada plans to resettle 23,000 privately sponsored refugees in 2025, reaffirming its commitment to meeting targets under the Immigration Levels Plan.

    Why the pause is necessary   

    The government’s decision to pause new applications aims to balance the demand for the PSR Program with the capacity to process applications.

    The current backlog has created delays, which can be stressful for both refugees and their sponsors. The pause is part of an effort to stabilize the program, ensuring that Canada can meet its resettlement goals without further increasing the backlog.

    IRCC has indicated that it will use this time to consult with stakeholders about possible improvements, including digital solutions and more efficient processing systems.

    The future of refugee sponsorship in Canada  

    While the pause is temporary, it raises questions about the long-term future of Canada’s PSR Program.

    Advocacy groups and sponsors have long pushed for reforms to make the system more efficient. IRCC has expressed its intention to use the suspension to explore these reforms and make the program more responsive to the needs of refugees.

    “This measure is about ensuring fairness and efficiency in the system,” IRCC said, adding that it is a necessary step to build a stronger program that can serve both refugees and sponsors effectively in the future.   

    Despite the suspension, INC reports that Canada remains committed to humanitarian efforts and will continue to lead in resettling refugees.

    While some groups may find the pause disappointing, it provides an opportunity for the government and stakeholders to work together to improve the PSR Program.

    What to know 

    • New applications for the PSR Program from Groups of Five and community sponsors will not be accepted from November 29th, 2024, to December 31, 2025.
    • Existing applications will continue to be processed, and 23,000 privately sponsored refugees are expected to arrive in 2025.
    • The pause will allow IRCC to address the backlog and improve processing times.
    • Future discussions will focus on potential reforms to the PSR Program, including digital solutions and more efficient processing systems.
  • Katsina Governor Radda announces N70,000 minimum wage for civil Servants

    Katsina Governor Radda announces N70,000 minimum wage for civil Servants

    Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has announced the approval of a new N70,000 minimum wage for civil servants in the state, effective December 2024.

    Radda disclosed this via his official X page on Saturday, adding that it follows a thorough and successful negotiation regarding the new national minimum wage.

    According to him, the development will be accompanied by the necessary adjustment of salaries for employees across all sectors, including state, local government, and local education authority staff, starting from December 2024.

    Relevant stakeholders’ agreement 

    The governor expressed gratitude to the civil servants for their unwavering patience and understanding.

    “I encourage you to embrace a culture rooted in hard work, honesty, and productivity, recognizing the important role each of you plays in our collective efforts,” he added. 

    According to the governor’s media aide, Isah Miqdad, the Katsina State Government and the State Joint Public Service Negotiation Council finalized a landmark agreement to implement the new national minimum wage.

    He stressed that the agreement was signed by the Head of Katsina State Civil Service, the Secretary to the State Government, and representatives of the labor unions, marking a significant milestone in labor relations within the state.

    What you should know 

    Nairametrics previously reported that President Bola Tinubu signed the new N70,000 national minimum wage into law four months ago.

    • Nairametrics also reported that the National Assembly approved the bill to increase the national minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000, effectively making it law.
    • The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, announced the approval following the third reading of the bill during a plenary session in Abuja.
    • The bill, proposed by President Bola Tinubu after meeting with the heads of organized labor last week, also included a reduction of the review timeline for the minimum wage from five years to three years.
    • Later, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) issued a December 1 ultimatum for all state governments to implement the new national minimum wage, citing the worsening economic situation faced by Nigerian workers.
    • This directive was announced in a communiqué signed by NLC President, Mr. Joe Ajaero, following the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
    • In the communiqué, Ajaero expressed strong dissatisfaction with the delays from certain states in implementing the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act, a delay he termed as both illegal and unjust.

    According to him, this lack of compliance has exacerbated the financial hardships faced by Nigerian workers amid rising inflation and the increasing cost of living.

    “The NEC notes with deep frustration the persistent delay and outright refusal by some state governments to implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act. This betrayal by certain governors and government officials across the country flies in the face of both legality and morality, as workers continue to be denied their rightful wages amidst rising economic hardship,” Ajaero stated. 

    Since then, several states have aligned by increasing their minimum wage.

  • FG raises loan access for MSMEs to N5 million at 9% interest rate in 3 years

    FG raises loan access for MSMEs to N5 million at 9% interest rate in 3 years

    The Nigerian government has announced a significant boost to its loan offerings for small businesses, raising the maximum amount accessible under single-digit interest loans to N5 million.

    The initiative, aimed at fostering inclusive economic growth, was unveiled by the Bank of Industry (BoI) Managing Director, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, during a town hall sensitization event in Lagos on Friday.

    Speaking on behalf of Olusi, Umar Shekarau, Executive Director for MSMEs at BoI, highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The initiative is underpinned by a N200 billion Presidential Intervention Fund, with N75 billion specifically earmarked for MSMEs.

    Senior Special Assistant to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs, Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, confirmed that the increase in loan size—from the previous cap of N1 million to N5 million—aims to address the financial and infrastructural challenges confronting small businesses.

    “The loan is 9% three years tenure. A single MSME can collect up to N5 million single digit,” said Adekunle-Johnson. 

    “This scheme is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs nationwide,” Shekarau stated, adding that the funds are ready for disbursement at an annual interest rate of nine percent. Business owners are encouraged to approach BoI directly or register online, avoiding intermediaries. 

    The initiative, part of a broader federal strategy, was developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, the Presidency, and other stakeholders.

    What to know 

    Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, represented by Ahmed Gazalli, showed the importance of MSMEs to the national economy. He described the program as a milestone in Nigeria’s drive towards economic empowerment and sustainable growth.

    “MSMEs form the backbone of our economy. Supporting their growth is essential for achieving our vision of an inclusive, thriving economy,” Gazalli remarked.  

    He reiterated the government’s resolve to remove barriers hindering MSME expansion while strengthening the manufacturing sector to reposition Nigeria’s economic landscape.

    Senator John Eno, Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, pledged continued government support for programs advancing the welfare of Nigerians.

    He called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to address systemic challenges and accelerate MSME growth.

    The scheme’s expanded scope shows Nigeria’s determination to leverage its entrepreneurial base as a catalyst for economic stability and growth.

     

  • China, Nigeria strengthen ties in renewable energy, smart city development

    China, Nigeria strengthen ties in renewable energy, smart city development

    China and Nigeria are set to deepen their bilateral relationship through an ambitious partnership focused on renewable energy, smart city development, and critical infrastructure projects. 

    This was made known by Fang Qiuchen, Chairman of the China International Contractors Association (CHINCA). Speaking on the sidelines of the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE) Exhibition in Abuja, Fang highlighted the potential of the collaboration to address Nigeria’s pressing energy challenges while promoting sustainable urban development. The move underscores the enduring relationship between the two nations, which dates back to 1991. 

    “The collaboration will leverage China’s advanced technologies and Nigeria’s abundant resources to create a sustainable energy framework that will benefit both nations,” Fang said, emphasizing its transformative potential for Nigeria’s energy sector and the broader economy. 

  • Rising onward migration of skilled immigrants threatens Canada’s economy

    Rising onward migration of skilled immigrants threatens Canada’s economy

    Canada is facing an increasing challenge as a growing number of skilled immigrants, including permanent residents, are leaving the country.

    Despite being a long-time destination for talented workers, many highly educated immigrants are opting to migrate elsewhere.

    This trend, known as “onward migration,” is raising alarms about the potential negative impact on Canada’s economy and workforce.

    As the government lowers its immigration targets in response to public concerns over housing and affordability, the departure of skilled workers could deepen existing workforce shortages and limit long-term economic growth.

    According to Immigration News Canada (INC), in the past year, Canada experienced significant population growth, driven by high immigration levels, international students, and temporary foreign workers.

    However, the federal government has revised its immigration policies, citing strain on social services and infrastructure.

    Reports tell that for the first time in decades, Canada has reduced its permanent immigration targets, cutting the 2024 target from 500,000 to 395,000 by 2025. While this reduction addresses some concerns, it overlooks the critical issue of retaining immigrants who have already arrived.

    Why skilled immigrants are leaving Canada 

    Contrary to popular belief, reports inform that many of those leaving Canada are not struggling to integrate, they are often highly educated professionals who were specifically selected for their skills to meet the country’s labor needs.

    Many immigrants are leaving for better opportunities abroad or due to dissatisfaction with their experiences in Canada.

    Some of the dissatisfying experiences are linked with: 

    Housing affordability and cost of living 

    • A major reason for onward migration is Canada’s housing affordability crisis. In cities like Toronto and Vancouver, INC reports that many immigrants find it increasingly difficult to secure affordable housing.
    • With costs rising and limited options available, some skilled workers are choosing to leave for more affordable countries, where they can build a more stable future.

    Underemployment and career barriers 

    It is noted that skilled immigrants often face barriers to fully utilizing their qualifications.

    • Factors such as regulatory challenges, delayed credential recognition, and a lack of Canadian work experience often push newcomers into low-paying jobs unrelated to their fields.
    • This underemployment drives many skilled workers to seek better opportunities in countries with more streamlined processes for career advancement.

    Better opportunities abroad 

    • Observations have cited that countries such as the United States, Australia, and Germany,  are actively competing for skilled talent.
    • Offering higher salaries, faster immigration pathways, and better support systems for newcomers, these nations have become attractive alternatives to Canada.
    • For many skilled immigrants, the pull of these opportunities outweighs the challenges they face in Canada.

    Economic impact of onward migration 

    • The loss of skilled immigrants poses a serious threat to Canada’s economy; as immigrants play a vital role in critical sectors like healthcare, technology, and construction, where labor shortages are already a pressing issue.
    • Losing these workers would not only inflame existing shortages but also limit the potential for innovation and growth.
    • INC notes that immigrants make up a significant portion of Canada’s healthcare workforce, and their departure could worsen shortages of doctors, nurses, and other professionals.

    Public opinion and changing attitudes toward immigration 

    • According to reports, recent surveys show growing skepticism toward immigration among Canadians, citing concerns about housing availability, healthcare access, and job competition.
    • This shift in public opinion has also influenced the federal government’s decision to cut immigration targets.
    • However, experts warn that a reduction in new arrivals may not be enough to address the deeper issue of retention, as immigrants who are already in Canada may still choose to leave.

    What Canada can do to retain immigrants 

    • To tackle the challenge of onward migration reports state that Canada needs to focus on retention as much as attraction.
    • Policy changes could include improving housing affordability, simplifying the process for recognizing foreign credentials, and investing in social services like healthcare and education.
    • Additionally, regional immigration programs aimed at encouraging newcomers to settle in smaller communities could help alleviate pressure on larger cities and create more balanced opportunities across the country.
  • Borno govt allocates N1.6 billion for rehabilitation of 33 hit by floods

    Borno govt allocates N1.6 billion for rehabilitation of 33 hit by floods

    The Borno State Government has approved N1.6 billion for the rehabilitation of 33 educational institutions affected by the recent floods in the state.

    The funding is aimed at restoring critical educational infrastructure and providing safe, conducive learning environments for students in the flood-impacted areas.

    Alhaji Lawan Abba-Wakilbe, the State’s Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, announced on Saturday, noting that the affected schools are spread across Maiduguri, Jere, Mafa, Konduga, Chibok, and Damboa local government areas, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria.

    “Borno Government says it has approved N1.6 billion for the rehabilitation of 33 educational institutions affected by the recent floods in the state. 

    “The affected schools cut across Maiduguri, Jere, Mafa, Konduga, Chibok, and Damboa local government areas of the state. 

    “Alhaji Lawan Abba-Wakilbe, the Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation announced this on Saturday in Maiduguri,” the NAN report read in part.  

    Abba-Wakilbe noted that the rehabilitation effort is part of a broader plan to address the damages caused by the floods, which have disrupted education for many students in the state.

    The Commissioner emphasized the government’s strong commitment to restoring learning facilities and ensuring uninterrupted education.

    He noted that the N1.6 billion will be allocated directly to the affected schools through the School-Based Management Committees (SBMCs), which will oversee the implementation of the School Improvement Plan (SIP) for each institution.

    Abba-Wakilbe stressed that the committees have earned a reputation for effectively managing previous projects, and they will ensure that the rehabilitation funds are used efficiently. The amount allocated to each school will be determined based on the level of damage sustained.

    More Insights

    The Commissioner also announced that the rehabilitation initiative will extend beyond the schools to include the state’s Library Board and the Scholarship Board, further strengthening the restoration of educational resources across Borno.

    • Abba-Wakilbe stressed that the Borno State Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation has set up a monitoring team to ensure the proper use of the funds.
    • To enhance transparency, he revealed that plans are also underway to engage an auditor and financial consultant to oversee the process.
    • The Commissioner urged school management without operational accounts to open them promptly to facilitate the fund distribution.

    The report also noted that the announcement has received widespread support from educators and parents, with many expressing optimism that the rehabilitation efforts will help students return to a safer, more stable learning environment.

     

  • What African leaders must learn from America First – Professor Jeremy Ghez

    What African leaders must learn from America First – Professor Jeremy Ghez

    With the rise of “America First,” African nations must rethink their approach to engaging with the United States, argues Professor Jeremy Ghez.

    Ghez gave this insight during the Nairametrics Nigeria Economic Outlook 2025 Focus: Exchange Rate, Interest Rate, Economic Growth, Geopolitics, he urged African nations to adapt to America’s evolving foreign policy, which now prioritizes domestic economic benefits over traditional diplomatic compromises.

    Ghez outlined how the U.S. has transitioned from compromise-driven diplomacy to a power-centric, transactional model.

    Referencing Donald Trump’s, The Art of the Deal, Ghez describes a negotiation style that thrives on arm wrestling rather than consensus-building.

    He emphasizes that this ideology represents a broader American pivot towards prioritizing domestic economic benefits in global engagements.

    “This is about business and economic prospects,” he says, highlighting that transnationalism, not protectionism, defines the current U.S. stance.

    Ghez calls on African leaders to respond strategically. Drawing lessons from China’s dealings with Trump, he suggests African nations would benefit from unity in negotiations.

    “The key for African partners is to find a core set of shared interests to push forward as a bloc,” Ghez advises. 

    The stakes are high, he notes, as economic priorities dominate U.S. foreign policy, sidelining broader security guarantees.

    “If you want this, you must get that,” Ghez says, underscoring the importance of clarity and leverage in negotiations,” she noted.

    Ghez reflects on a changing America, one less willing to compromise and more focused on transactional outcomes.

    For African leaders, the message is clear: adapt to the rules of this new game or risk being sidelined in the global power struggle.

    Concerns loom over AGOA renewal amid changing U.S. policies 

    • As the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) nears its 2025 expiration, Margaret Olele, CEO of the American Business Council, also expressed concerns over potential renegotiations under evolving U.S. policies.
    • Speaking on Nigeria’s trade opportunities, Olele stressed that AGOA remains a lifeline for many African nations, including Nigeria, in maintaining export relationships with the U.S.

    “The fear of higher tariffs or reduced trade benefits under an ‘America First’ policy is palpable,” Olele said. “The current administration’s anti-China stance, however, may still create opportunities for U.S. private sector-driven projects in Nigeria.” 

    Since its inception during the Trump administration, AGOA has facilitated 152 deals worth $86 billion in exports to Africa.

    Olele called on Nigeria to strengthen its economic fundamentals to remain competitive in future U.S. trade policies.

  • No official date for upcoming census in Nigeria – NPC

    No official date for upcoming census in Nigeria – NPC

    The National Population Commission (NPC) has issued a clarification in response to misleading reports circulating online that falsely suggest the Chairman, Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, announced the next Population and Housing Census in Nigeria would take place in 2025.

    In a statement released today by the NPC, Erelu Taibat Yemi Oloruntoba, the Acting Director of Public Affairs, the NPC clarified that no official date for the upcoming census has been set.

    The commission noted that the Chairman’s remarks had been misinterpreted, saying that the misreporting stems from comments made during a media interaction at the 30th Anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) in Abuja.

    What NPC is saying

    “We wish to clarify that no official announcement regarding the date of the upcoming census has been made. The Chairman’s remarks have been taken out of context by individuals seeking to mislead the public and drive traffic to their sites rather than provide accurate information. 

    “To put the record straight, during a media interaction at the 30th Anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) in Abuja, the NPC Chairman addressed the pressing issue of significant data gaps in Nigeria that impede the tailoring of reproductive health services and interventions to specific demographic groups. He expressed hope that President Tinubu would proclaim the census date in the coming year,” the statement read. 

    NPC’s constitutional role  

    • The NPC, in its statement, emphasized that while it is constitutionally mandated to conduct censuses, the commission does not have the authority to set the date for the census.
    • The power to determine the census date rests solely with the President of Nigeria, who must issue the proclamation.
    • Following the postponement of the census by the previous administration, the NPC has been engaged in discussions with the presidency to determine the new census date. The commission remains in the preparatory stages for the upcoming census, with ongoing consultations about the timeline.
    • The NPC reassured the public that while the census date has not been set, preparations for the event are actively underway. The Commission is working diligently in collaboration with the presidency to establish an official date.

    Oloruntoba urged the public to rely on verified information from official NPC channels instead of unsubstantiated reports from unofficial sources.

    “We urge the public to seek verified information from official NPC channels rather than relying on unsubstantiated claims,” stated Oloruntoba. 

    The NPC called on both the public and the media to exercise caution when disseminating information. The Commission urged all stakeholders to verify the accuracy of reports before publication and to rely on official sources for updates.