Npc Promises to Deliver Credible, Acceptable Census

The National Population Commission recently commenced the 2023-24 Nigeria Demographic Health Survey and initiated the reconstruction of the Akwa Ibom State NPC office building for the upcoming census. Assuring the public, the Chairman, Mr. Nasir Isa Kwarra, pledged to deliver a credible, reliable, and acceptable population census in Nigeria. He emphasized the commission’s commitment to providing adequate facilities to create a conducive work environment for its personnel.

Acknowledging the financial and moral support from President Bola Tinubu, the NPC chairman lauded the efforts of NPC staff and expressed appreciation for their dedication over the years. The remodeled building is part of the commission’s preparation for the next population and housing census. It will serve as the administrative center for important meetings and decisions regarding the growth and progress of the commission.

The objectives of the 2023-24 NDHS include gathering high-quality data on various vital indicators such as fertility rates, maternal and child health, contraceptive use, childhood mortality, gender-related issues, nutrition, and HIV/AIDS awareness. This survey aims to provide data to support the evaluation needs of maternal and child health and family planning programs for evidence-based planning and resource allocation.

The NPC has been diligently implementing the NDHS in collaboration with key partners for over three decades, setting high standards for demographic and health data collection in Nigeria. The commission is committed to upholding the same high standards of excellence and precision that have defined the NDHS over the years.

Commending NPC for the remodeled and reconstructed building offices, the Special Adviser, Bureau of Political and Social Reorientation, Amanam Nkanga, expressed confidence in NPC’s readiness for an accurate census. The Bureau pledged to collaborate with the commission on demographic and population matters.

The NDHS State Coordinator, Mrs. Helen Amakwe, announced that the survey in Akwa Ibom will cover 25 local government areas, encompassing 39 clusters and 14,000 households, with a particular focus on the health issues of women and children. Conducted every five years, this will be the eighth in the series in Nigeria. The survey involves collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Women Affairs, and technical assistance from USAID and ICF.