Population census crucial to economic growth, development – Elumelu

The Chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, Mr Tony Elumelu, says adequate knowledge of Nigeria’s population will help accelerate economic growth and development.

Elumelu, who is also the Chairman of Heirs Holdings Group and Transnational Corporation (Transcorp) Plc, said this in Abuja on Monday, at a donor engagement on Nigeria’s 2023 Housing and Population Census.

According to him, the task of conducting the census is critical to our country’s future.

“If we do not know our population, we cannot properly plot our developmental path, our economic growth, our society’s goals.

“Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa, with an estimated population of over 200 million people. Population growth and development are inextricably related in Nigeria.

“The last time a census was conducted in Nigeria was 2006, when we recorded a population of 140 million people.

“Today, our population is estimated to be in excess of 200 million, it is projected that this figure will grow to 450 million by 2050, which could make Nigerian the third most populous country in the world,” he said.

Elumelu commended President, Muhammadu Buhari, for his laudable effort at organising the 2023 housing and population census.

According to him, credible demographic data is of profound importance for the public and private sector alike.

“We all know we live in a data driven world.

“As a private sector leader with investments in key sectors of the Nigerian economy, I understand first-hand, the value and importance of available, accessible and accurate data.

“Data helps in making informed decisions, driving development, and creating opportunities,” he said.

He said that the upcoming census was a significant milestone in Nigeria’s development, as it would provide an opportunity to collect accurate and reliable data on