2023 Census Postponement and its Attendant Issues
By Halima Abdulkadiri
The postponement of the 2023 census by President Muhammadu Buhari and National Population Commission (NPC) is a significant development with far-reaching implications. While the decision to delay the census may have been made for valid reasons, it has both positive and negative effects that need to be carefully analyzed.
Originally this is not the first time census date was change but the second time the headcount would be shifted. The original schedule was for March 29, before it was shifted to May, the date was necessitated by the Postponement of the Governorship and State Assembly Elections from March 11 to 18.
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On the positive side, postponing the census allows the NPC to address any logistical challenges or shortcomings that may have been identified during the pre-census preparations. Conducting an accurate and comprehensive census is crucial for any nation, as it provides essential data for effective policy-making, resource allocation, and planning. By taking the time to ensure that all necessary preparations are in place, the NPC can potentially improve the accuracy and reliability of the census results, which will have long-term benefits for Nigeria’s development.
One of the reason President Buhari reschedule the census was because he was getting too close to the handover date. And since the major aim of the census is to plan for the Development of the Programmes of Government, Buhari felt that the incoming Government should be a part of the process. They are going to be the major user and beneficiary of the census.
Moreover, the postponement provides an opportunity for the NPC to enhance public awareness and engagement in the census process. Conducting a successful census requires the participation and cooperation of the entire population. By extending the timeline, the NPC can focus on extensive public education campaigns, ensuring that citizens understand the importance of the census and actively participate in it. This can lead to increased transparency and trust in the process, ultimately yielding more accurate data.
However, there are also negative consequences associated with the census postponement. One immediate concern is the potential disruption to long-term planning and policymaking. The census data serves as a critical foundation for various sectors, including healthcare, education, infrastructure development, and economic planning. Delaying the census means that policymakers and stakeholders will have to rely on outdated data for decision-making, which can result in suboptimal resource allocation and ineffective policies. It may also hinder Nigeria’s ability to accurately track population trends and address social and economic inequalities.
Another drawback is the impact on political representation and power-sharing. The census plays a vital role in determining the allocation of seats in legislative bodies, such as the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly. Postponing the census could lead to delays in redrawing electoral boundaries and the redistribution of seats, potentially creating imbalances in representation. This could undermine the democratic process and create political tensions.
In summary, the postponement of the 2023 census by the National Population Commission in Nigeria has both positive and negative effects. While it allows for better preparations and increased public participation, it also disrupts long-term planning, potentially hampers policymaking, and impacts political representation. It is crucial for the NPC to utilize the additional time effectively to address any challenges and ensure a successful and accurate census that can serve as a solid foundation for Nigeria’s development and governance.
