Nigeria’s Biometric Census: A Bold Leap Toward Data-Driven Development

After nearly two decades of relying on population estimates, Nigeria is poised for a paradigm shift with the Senate’s push for a biometric census in 2025. This landmark initiative aims to end years of planning with inaccurate data, setting the stage for Africa’s largest economy to embrace data-driven governance.

The urgency for this census stems from the critical role demographic data plays in shaping economic policies, resource allocation, and national development.
Senator Abdul Ningi captured the sentiment during a budget defense session with the National Population Commission (NPC), calling the reliance on foreign-sourced estimates “a national disgrace.” His sentiments were echoed by other lawmakers, including Senator Diket Plang, who stressed the need to align governance with reliable statistics.

At the heart of the proposed census is technology. NPC Chairman Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra assured the Senate of a fraud-proof biometric system, noting its capacity to provide precise data on the population. “This technology ensures we count humans, not fishes or livestock,” he quipped, signaling a departure from past controversies around census credibility.

The biometric approach is expected to address Nigeria’s long-standing challenges with undercounting, fraud, and inflated figures tied to political and ethnic interests.
By linking individuals to unique identifiers, the process promises a transparent and verifiable headcount.

Beyond accuracy, the ₦18.2 billion proposed budget for the census reflects the commitment to innovative solutions, with substantial allocations for capital projects to support the biometric systems. Lawmakers not only approved the budget but emphasized the urgency of delivering on this promise to avoid further delays.

A reliable census is more than just numbers; it is the foundation of national growth. Accurate data will enable the government to address inequalities in resource distribution, develop targeted social programs, and foster private sector confidence.
As Nigeria grapples with complex challenges, from urbanization to security, the 2025 biometric census offers a critical opportunity to redefine governance.

As the countdown begins, the pressure is on the NPC to deliver a transparent and transformative census. With the support of the government, the initiative could set a precedent for other African nations, proving that technological innovation is key to tackling age-old challenges.
The 2025 census is not just about counting people—it is about empowering Nigeria with the data it needs to build a brighter future.