Nigeria’s Population: A Call for Accurate Figures and Economic Planning

In a bid to enhance economic planning and infrastructure development in Nigeria, the newly inaugurated commissioners of the National Population Commission (NPC) have been urged to provide the country with an accurate population figure.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, emphasized the importance of this information for effective economic planning, stating that it is embarrassing for Nigeria to continue to guess its population figures.

During the inauguration dinner of the federal commissioner representing Abia State on the NPC Board, Chief Emmanuel Trump Eke, Kalu highlighted the need for a comprehensive census to provide accurate data on Nigeria’s population.

This information is crucial for making informed decisions on infrastructure and resource allocation across the country.

Kalu commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his inclusive government and appointments, despite the low number of votes the South East region gave to the President in the last presidential election.

He also thanked the Igbo people for not participating in recent protests against the present administration over economic hardship, which he believes is not solely caused by the Tinubu’s government.

The Deputy Speaker expressed optimism that the President would support the South East Development Commission bill, which was sponsored by him to rehabilitate and reconstruct the region.

He called on the people of the South East to reciprocate the kind gesture of the administration by supporting the government and recognizing that their own are involved in the leadership.

Kalu praised President Tinubu for his appointments of Igbo individuals to key positions, including Chief of Naval Staff, Minister of Works, and Chairman of Governor’s Forum.

He urged the people of the South East to be patient and continue to support the government in order to access more opportunities and improve national cohesion.