November 16, (THEWILL) – The National Population Commission (NPC) and the National Orientation Agency (NOA), have resolved to work together to guarantee the success of the 2023 National Population and Housing Census.
During a joint briefing by the heads of both organisations, they made the pledge in Calabar.
Speaking on behalf of the NPC, Navy Captain, Charles Ogwa (rtd), the Cross River State representative in the commission, said the partnership underscores the readiness to ensure the success of the census.
“This collaboration underscores the commission’s determination and readiness to ensure the success of this census.
“Getting the 2023 census right is a task for all of us and not just that of the NPC.
“The census that will be conducted will be accurate, reliable and acceptable, and will also help to fast track the socio-economic development of the country.
“The commission will need the support of all stakeholders to deliver to the country, reliable, true and digital data that can be used for sustainable development planning.
“We have completed demarcation of the 18 local government areas (LGAs), which we have presented the compendium of localities to the local governments for them to look at, where if there are any mistakes, they will forward the mistakes, and in fact, over 12 LGAs in Cross River have sent their error observations to us”, he said.
On his part, the state director National Orientation Agency, Usetu Ogban, said they are in a marriage with the NPC because it’s a government agency and the census needs to succeed.
“We are saddled with the responsibility of sensitising and enlightening people on government activities.
“The NOA is a strong pillar of communication for the Federal Government and we are in a marriage with the NPC because the census is a government programme and needs to succeed”, he said.
He added that, unlike previous exercises, people now have to open the door and allow the enumerators to enter and enumerate people.
He said the data that will come out will be used specifically for development purposes.
About the Author
THEWILL Correspondent, Aniekan Bassey has over six years experience that spans across several fields in print journalism including development communication, sexual reproductive and health rights issues, crime, climate change, social justice, business and human interest stories.
