Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has called on the Federal Government to immediately conduct a fresh National Population and Housing Census, warning that Nigeria can no longer depend on population figures generated two decades ago.
Kwankwaso made the call on Saturday while marking the 2026 World Population Day. He expressed concern over the continued use of data from the 2006 census for national planning and policy decisions.
According to him, the prolonged delay in carrying out another census has created significant challenges for effective governance and development across the country.
In a statement shared on his official X account, Kwankwaso noted that reliable population data remains one of the most important tools for government planning. He said sectors such as education, healthcare, security, infrastructure, employment and resource distribution require current and accurate statistics to function effectively.
“The last exercise, held in 2006, has left us relying on outdated population figures for critical national decisions on education, healthcare, security, infrastructure, employment, and resource allocation.”
He stated that the absence of updated demographic information has made it difficult for policymakers to properly assess the country’s needs and allocate resources fairly among states and communities.
Kwankwaso stressed that population growth, urban expansion and migration patterns have changed significantly over the years, making it necessary for authorities to obtain fresh data that reflects current realities.
He further argued that accurate population records are vital for national security, economic planning and the implementation of sustainable development programmes.
According to him, a modern census would help government institutions make informed decisions and improve service delivery to citizens.
The former Kano State governor also urged authorities to ensure that any future census exercise is credible, transparent and supported by technology to guarantee public confidence in the outcome.
“On this World Population Day, I strongly urge the Federal Government to prioritise and conduct a credible, transparent, and technology-driven national Population and Housing Census without further delay. The time for excuses is over. The time to act is now.”
Successive administrations have announced plans to conduct a fresh census, but the exercise has repeatedly been postponed due to funding, logistical and administrative challenges.
