The Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Akiolu I, on Wednesday called on the Federal Government to provide full support to the National Population Commission (NPC) to ensure the successful conduct of the forthcoming Population and Housing Census.
The monarch made the call when he received the Chairman of the National Population Commission, Dr. Aminu Yusuf, and his delegation, during a courtesy visit to his palace at Iga Idunganran, Lagos.
Oba Akiolu emphasized the critical role accurate population data plays in national planning and sustainable development. He noted that the long delay in organizing another census since the last one in 2006 has created significant data gaps that continue to impede effective socio-economic planning.
“Accurate data is essential for evidence-based policies. Nigeria cannot continue to plan with outdated figures,” the Oba stated.
The monarch urged the Commission to ensure transparency and integrity in the conduct of the census so that its outcome will be credible, reliable, and widely acceptable. He also pledged his full support in mobilizing residents of Lagos State to participate actively in all NPC activities.
While praying for Dr. Yusuf’s successful tenure, Oba Akiolu assured the Commission of the palace’s cooperation in promoting public awareness about the importance of the census and the continuous registration of births and deaths.
Earlier in his remarks, the NPC Chairman, Dr. Aminu Yusuf, highlighted the urgent need for updated and credible population data, stressing that the last census nearly two decades ago no longer reflects the realities of Nigeria’s growing urban centers.
He said Lagos, in particular, has undergone dramatic demographic changes marked by expanding communities, increasing population density, and continuous migration, all of which have reshaped the state’s social and economic landscape.
“Planning for housing, transportation, schools, hospitals, and other essential services is still based on outdated figures that don’t reflect the true size and structure of Lagos’ population,” Dr. Yusuf said.
The NPC boss reaffirmed the Commission’s preparedness to conduct a comprehensive and fully digital Population and Housing Census once the Federal Government announces a new date.
Dr. Yusuf also underscored the importance of the Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) system, which involves the continuous registration of births and deaths. He called on the Oba to use his influence to encourage residents to participate actively in this vital civic process.
“Accurate birth and death registration ensures proper documentation for access to education, healthcare, and social protection,” he stated. “With your guidance, our public engagement efforts will be stronger and more inclusive.”
He expressed appreciation to the Oba for his leadership and commitment to public service, noting that traditional rulers remain vital partners in achieving transparency, participation, and trust in the census process.
The Federal Commissioner representing Lagos State at the NPC, Barr. Saidat Olayinka Oladunjoye, thanked the Oba for his consistent support of the Commission’s activities, particularly in promoting electronic Civil Registration and Vital Statistics across the state.
The NPC delegation also included the Federal Commissioner representing Ogun State, Dr. Otunba Fasuwa Johnson Abayomi, Director-General of the NPC, Dr. Osifo Tellson Ojogun and other senior technical aides of the Chairman, alongside the GMD of Barnksforte Technologies Limited, Mr. Adedayo Bankole.
