Strengthening Nigeria’s Demographic Data System: A Legislative Intervention for Regular Population Censuses

Abstract

Accurate and up-to-date demographic data is fundamental to effective governance, equitable resource allocation, and sustainable national development. However, Nigeria’s continued dependence on irregular and outdated population data has significantly hindered its ability to formulate and implement evidence-based policies. This policy brief underscores the urgent need for legislative intervention to institutionalize a robust, reliable, and regular demographic data system. To this end, the following are recommended: The National Assembly (NASS) may consider enacting legislation—similar to practices in countries like the United States and Kenya—requiring population censuses to be conducted at regular intervals (e.g., every 10 years). The legislation may include provisions for accountability, independent oversight, and legal sanctions for non-compliance. NASS may adopt a resolution urging both federal and state governments to integrate civil registration systems (covering births, deaths, and migration) with census data. This would promote continuity, accuracy, and efficiency in population record-keeping. The legislature may promote the institutionalization of a dedicated funding mechanism for census operations within the national budget. Additionally, NASS may support the exploration of public-private partnerships and international donor assistance to supplement government funding.