Vice-President Kashim Shettima has highlighted the critical importance of improving data collection, analysis, and technological deployment to create comprehensive and inclusive evidence that guides government decisions, investment choices, and developmental pathways. Speaking at the 2024 World Population Day event at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja, Shettima emphasized that leveraging the best technology to strengthen data systems, enhance human resources, and foster partnerships is key to securing a resilient and equitable future for all Nigerians.
In his address, Shettima underscored the significance of this year’s theme, which focuses on the power and promises of inclusive data. He stated, “Data is life. Data is our evidence. Data is our performance. It is the most realistic picture of situations, trends, and patterns; it tells us how many we are, with an understanding of the age structure, sex structure, location, and more. Data is the true story of our experiences and informs us about today and the future through scientific projections, forecasting, and analysis.”
Despite Nigeria’s last census occurring 18 years ago, Shettima noted that the country has always valued data’s importance. He called for a renewed commitment to enhancing data collection and analysis, incorporating modern technology to generate more inclusive and comprehensive evidence. This, he believes, will better inform government decisions, investment options, and development strategies.
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Addressing one of the longstanding challenges in Nigerian governance, Shettima reassured citizens that with President Bola Tinubu at the helm, the nation is poised for significant improvement. He praised Tinubu’s recognition of data as a critical component in the nation’s development, given his background as a first-rate accountant.
Shettima also revealed plans for a substantial Presidential Initiative for Youth Enterprise Clusters, valued at N110 billion. This initiative, along with the establishment of a Youth Data Bank and a National Youth Development Bank, builds on the existing N110 billion Youth Investment Fund. He highlighted the administration’s commitment to fulfilling a 30% quota for youth inclusion in governance, demonstrating that the President is taking concrete steps to support young Nigerians.
The Vice-President stressed that access to inclusive data sources would align government policies and investments with citizens’ needs, including providing decent jobs, equitable healthcare services, and quality education. As Chairman of the National Economic Council (NEC), Shettima pledged to ensure that people and communities remain the focus of the government’s development efforts.
Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, commended partners for their commitment to leveraging scientific evidence to address the challenges faced by various population segments. She announced plans to build a youth data bank dedicated to harnessing young people’s potential for national development, regardless of their location or status.
Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Nasir Isa Kwarra, emphasized the need for periodic censuses to generate administrative data for inclusive planning and sustainable development. He pointed out the urgency of conducting a new census, given that the last one was nearly two decades ago.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, represented by Ronald David Kayanja, Director of the UN Information Centre for Nigeria, called for renewed commitment and investment to realize the promises of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action. He highlighted the progress made since the programme’s adoption but stressed the need for continued efforts to address persistent inequalities.
Dr. Natalia Kanem, Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), represented by UNFPA Nigeria Deputy Representative Mr. Koessan Kuawu, emphasized the necessity of inclusive data systems that capture human diversity. She stated, “To go uncounted is to be made invisible and, as a result, left unserved.” She called for a commitment to ensuring that data systems work for everyone, especially those on the margins.
Finally, Hon. Okunjimi John Odimayo, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Population, represented at the event, urged stakeholders to synergize ideas and resources to promote inclusive development across Nigeria. He noted that the World Population Day commemoration provides a valuable platform for partners to appraise and harness unique opportunities for national development.
