Nigeria needs N869 billion to conduct 2023 census – FG

A breakdown of the expenses have also been elucidated by the the Federal Government.

As the date draws near for the National Population and Housing census, the Federal Government has projected a whooping N869 billion of the successful execution of the national exercise.

The counting exercise will be held across the country between March 29, 2023 and April 2, 2023 in all 774 local government areas of the country.

During a high-level partner engagement on the 2023 census, the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Clement Agba elucidated a comprehensive allocation of the huge sum.

According to him, a total of N626 million ($1.36 billion) would be allocated towards the census proper; while N243 billion ($527 million) would be allocated for post-census activities spanning over three years.

Agba also stated that a workforce of 885,000 enumerators will be trained for 7-days to carry out the crucial tasks of building numbering and household listing.

The government will also partner with development partners, including the United Nations Populations Fund (UNFPA) to conduct the census.

Reports also states that the government, however, have already secured N291.5 billion (46% of the actual funds) for the purpose of the exercise. FG also has futher plans to establish a basket fund, in collaboration with UNFPA to collate donations and pledges towards the realisation of this critical endeavour.

Nigeria, according to UNFPA, has an approximated population 216 million. Based on projected statistics, Nigeria’s population could reach a staggering 400 million population if the country continues on its current trajectory.