NPC AND INEC CHAIRMEN MEET TO ENHANCE COLLABORATION AHEAD OF UPCOMING CENSUS

Today, 8th May 2025, the Chairman of National Population Commission (NPC), Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, received in audience the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, at the NPC Headquarters in Abuja. Prof. Yakubu was accompanied by INEC National Commissioner, Mr. Mohammed Haruna.

The meeting focused on strengthening the collaboration between the two Commissions in preparation for the upcoming biometric Population and Housing Census and to enhance electoral processes across the country.

Prof. Yakubu praised the NPC for its significant achievements, particularly the successful conduct of the Enumeration Area Demarcation (EAD) exercise across all 774 Local Government Areas, which has resulted in a comprehensive digital Enumeration Area frame for Nigeria. He emphasized that the geospatial data gathered will be vital for INEC in delineating electoral wards and constituencies following the next census, noting the importance of population quotas in this process.

In addition, the INEC Chairman highlighted the necessity of obtaining accurate records of births and deaths from the NPC to maintain an efficient and reliable voters' register. He urged the NPC to integrate Voter Identification Number (VIN) into its electronic Civil Registration and Vital Statistics system, which would assist INEC in identifying and removing deceased individuals from the voters' register.

Responding to these points, NPC Chairman Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra expressed his commitment to partnering with INEC to enhance the electoral process. He also requested INEC's support for the upcoming census, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts.

The partnership between the NPC and INEC is crucial for upholding the integrity of Nigeria's electoral process. The EAD exercise, with its emphasis on accurate RA/ward delineation, lays the groundwork for conducting free and fair elections. Furthermore, INEC will share its expertise with the NPC in areas such as biometric capturing, logistics, and resource mobilization, which are essential for the successful conduct of the next census.

Also, in attendance were key NPC officials, including Federal Commissioner for Lagos State, Barr. Mrs. Saidat Olayinka Oladunjoye; Federal Commissioner for Adamawa State, Dr. Clifford Zirra; Federal Commissioner for Kogi State, Hon. Yori Afolabi; Director of Census, Dr. Inuwa Jalingo; Director of Cartography, Mrs. Nkechi Odeh, along with other technical staff.