World Population Day 2026: Kwankwaso Laments Nigeria's Failure to Conduct Census In Two Decades

 Former Kano State Governor and NNPP leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has expressed concern over Nigeria's failure to conduct a national Population and Housing Census in the last 20 years

In a statement marking World Population Day 2026, Kwankwaso described the prolonged delay as deeply troubling, stressing that accurate population data is essential for effective national planning, economic development, and the equitable distribution of resources 

Kwankwaso statement reads: "As Nigeria joins the global community to mark World Population Day 2026, it is deeply concerning that our nation has not conducted a national Population and Housing Census in two decades. The last exercise, held in 2006, has left us relying on outdated population figures for critical national decisions on education, healthcare, security, infrastructure, employment, and resource allocation

"This data vacuum undermines effective planning and equitable development. Accurate, up-to-date population statistics are the bedrock of good governance, national security, sustainable development, and inclusive growth. We cannot continue to shape the future of estimated over 200 million Nigerians using statistics frozen in time

"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. - RMK