The National Population and Housing Census will finally take place in November 2024, according to reliable sources within the National Population Commission (NPC).
This long-awaited headcount will be the first since 2006.
Nigeria’s current population estimate remains at 140 million, based on the 2006 census.
The previous administration under President Muhammadu Buhari attempted to conduct a new census in 2022, but the exercise was postponed indefinitely. However, President Bola Tinubu pledged his unwavering support for the next census upon taking office.
“The population remains the greatest asset of the nation in her development process,” President Tinubu said at the launch of the Electronic Civil Registration and Vital Statistics System in November. “Collecting accurate and reliable information is essential for good governance and aligns perfectly with our Renewed Hope Agenda.”
“The commission will therefore be supported in the conduct of the next census,” Tinubu added.
While the President initially remained silent on a new date, NPC officials have now shed light on the tentative timeline. Speaking on condition of anonymity, a high-ranking source within the commission confirmed the November 2024 date, stating that budget discussions with the Presidency are already underway.
“We have met with the President, and discussions are progressing,” they revealed. “The Presidency has reviewed our budget proposal, and the census will be conducted in November next year.”
Meanwhile, the NPC has requested N693.3 million in the 2024 budget specifically for this purpose. Additionally, smaller allocations within the budget are earmarked for related activities such as data management, publicity, and research.
