Nasir Kwarra, the Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), has revealed that the commission is still awaiting approval from President Bola Tinubu regarding the new date for the national population and housing census. Speaking to journalists after the swearing-in ceremony of 17 NPC commissioners at the State House in Abuja, Kwarra explained that although recommendations had been made to the president, no official date had been approved yet.
When asked about the potential timing of the census, Kwarra stated, “No date has been approved for us yet but we have made recommendations to Mr. President and we are awaiting his approval.” He emphasized the importance of the commissioners’ swearing-in, describing it as a crucial step in facilitating the commission’s preparations for the census.
According to Kwarra, the appointment of the commissioners significantly enhances the commission’s readiness for the census, as their presence in every state of the federation is essential for effective preparation. He highlighted the role of commissioners in expediting the preparation process, stating that without representation from each state, the pace of preparation would be hindered.
President Tinubu recently swore in 17 NPC commissioners at the Council Chamber of the State House in Abuja. Nine of the commissioners were re-appointed for a second term, while eight others were newly appointed. The commissioners took their oath in three separate batches.
The postponement of the 2023 Population and Housing Census was approved by former President Muhammadu Buhari, with the new administration under President Tinubu tasked with determining the revised dates. Kwarra had previously indicated that the delay in conducting the census would result in additional expenses beyond the initial budget of N200 billion earmarked for the exercise.