Accurate population data is impossible without grassroots mobilisation, the Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Dr. Aminu Yusuf, declared during a high-level visit to traditional rulers in Imo State.
Dr. Yusuf made the appeal on February 26, 2026, during a courtesy call on Emmanuel Okeke, the Eze Imo and Chairman of the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, in Owerri. He was accompanied by senior officials of the Commission as part of ongoing nationwide consultations ahead of the forthcoming Population and Housing Census.
‘Royal Fathers Are Key to Credible Census’
The NPC Chairman emphasised that traditional institutions remain indispensable partners in producing reliable demographic data for national planning, equitable resource allocation, and sustainable development.
According to him, traditional rulers wield deep influence within their communities and are uniquely positioned to drive awareness and participation in census exercises, as well as birth and death registration.
While awaiting the official proclamation for the national census, Dr. Yusuf explained that the Commission continues to oversee Nigeria’s Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) system, with renewed focus on improving birth and death registration nationwide.
Birth Registration Crucial for Legal Identity
Highlighting the broader implications, Dr. Yusuf warned that failure to register children at birth could deny them access to essential services, including education, healthcare, and social protection.
He urged traditional rulers across Imo State to intensify sensitisation campaigns, assuring residents that census and civil registration processes are safe, confidential, and critical for inclusive development.
The NPC boss also commended Eze Okeke for his leadership and commitment to unity and peace in the state.
Responding, Eze Okeke pledged the full cooperation of traditional rulers in mobilising communities to participate actively in census and vital registration programmes.
The visit forms part of the NPC’s broader national engagement strategy aimed at strengthening public trust and boosting participation in population data collection efforts.
