The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has inaugurated a 25-member National Census Security and Logistic Committee in Abuja.
This committee, comprising members from the military, paramilitary, police force, relevant ministries, unions, and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), aims to ensure the smooth and secure conduct of the upcoming Population and Housing Census.
During the inauguration ceremony on Wednesday, Ribadu emphasized the importance of accurate demographic data for effective policy formulation, planning, and sustainable development. He highlighted that the current administration, under President Bola Tinubu, prioritizes the conduct of the census as a key step towards evidence-based planning for the nation’s development.
Ribadu acknowledged the extensive scope of the census, noting the critical need to safeguard personnel, materials, and ensure the smooth execution of the census activities. He identified several potential threats that could impact the census, including:
– Physical attacks on National Population Commission (NPC) staff and facilities
– Attacks on security personnel on census duty
– Kidnapping
– Inter/intra communal violence disrupting census work
– Attacks on NPC databases and ICT infrastructure
– Intimidation of the public to deter participation
– Snatching and destruction of census materials
He particularly stressed the significant challenge posed by insecurity issues such as banditry, kidnapping, armed conflicts, terrorism, insurgency, and other violent crimes. Ribadu expressed confidence that the committee, with its diverse and capable members, would effectively address these challenges and ensure the safe movement of personnel and materials before, during, and after the census.
Additionally, Ribadu mentioned that similar committees would be established across the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and the 774 local government areas to maintain coordinated efforts and secure the census process nationwide.
