During a conversation with the Southern Kaduna Journalists Forum in Abuja on Friday, Dr. Abdulmalik Durunguwa, the Federal Commissioner for the National Population Commission representing Kaduna State, reassured that the upcoming 2023 Census will tackle the numerous issues currently affecting Nigeria.

He explained that conducting the census comprehensively would resolve many of the problems currently plaguing the nation, and that the government would gain insight into the issues through this process. The census would yield vital information that the government and its collaborators could use to devise strategies for meeting people's requirements and driving the nation towards a sustainable future.

The crucial information needed pertains more to an individual's place of residence rather than their village or state. The primary objective of this data is to address the needs of people irrespective of their location.

It is imperative for Nigeria to have a clear understanding of the structure and characteristics of its population. Therefore, the Commissioner urged all individuals to participate in the census, regardless of their location. He emphasized the importance of obtaining accurate data to enable the government to devise appropriate plans and strategies. Following the census, the government would have a reliable reference document that would help it to address the unique challenges faced by people living in various regions of the country.

The majority of the population data being utilized in Nigeria is approximated. It is crucial to determine the precise figures for certain metrics such as poverty level, number of out-of-school children, and the actual number of individuals living in poverty. The Commissioner noted that the last census was conducted in 2006, and children born that year have already turned 17 years old. This vast time gap highlights the importance of conducting a new census to obtain updated and accurate information.

The Commissioner reassured Nigerians that the census would take place immediately after the new administration's inauguration and reiterated the commission's commitment to making it the most successful one yet. Mr. Ango Bally, the Chairman of the Southern Kaduna Journalists Forum, had previously stated that the visit aimed to reinforce partnerships and collaboration.

Bally clarified that the forum would be a useful resource for raising awareness and mobilizing individuals to participate in the census. He pledged that the journalists associated with the platform would continue to educate people about the significance of the housing and population census.