Following the revelation of the proposed budget for Nigeria’s national census, former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has strongly criticized the National Population Commission (NPC) for requesting nearly a trillion naira to conduct the exercise, labeling the move as “completely absurd.”
The NPC had presented a budget of ₦942 billion for this year’s housing and population census. However, reports indicate that President Bola Tinubu has rejected the proposal and is instead considering alternative strategies, such as involving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to assist in the census process.
Sani’s remarks have drawn attention to the staggering cost of the census, particularly at a time when the country is grappling with significant economic difficulties. The proposed budget has ignited widespread debate, with many questioning the justification for such a massive expenditure on the exercise.
President Tinubu’s potential use of NYSC members is seen as a pragmatic approach to reduce costs. By utilizing the existing framework of the youth service program, the government could achieve the census goals while minimizing financial strain.
This development has sparked a broader conversation about the importance of transparency and fiscal prudence in government initiatives, especially those requiring substantial public funds. As the discussion unfolds, stakeholders are advocating for a balanced strategy that ensures accurate data collection without overburdening the nation’s already stretched resources.
