UNFPA to Support FG in Harnessing Inclusive Data for Resilient Systems
The UN Population Fund (UNFPA) has pledged to assist the Federal Government in leveraging inclusive data to build resilient systems and societies.
This commitment was reiterated by Ms. Deborah Tabara, the UNFPA Gender/Reproductive Health Analyst, during the commemoration of the 2024 World Population Day (WPD) on Thursday in Bauchi.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that WPD, observed annually on July 11, raises awareness of global population issues and celebrates those contributing to their resolution.
This year’s theme is “Embracing the Power of Inclusive Data Towards a Resilient and Equitable Future for All.”
Tabara emphasized that inclusive data is crucial for informed decision-making, shaping policies, programs, strategies, plans, and budgets that promote inclusivity and equality.
“Together with you, we can forge a future where every person is counted, every community is acknowledged, and every need is addressed,” she said.
Alhaji Nasir Kwarra, Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), noted that Nigeria lacks sufficient, comprehensive, and inclusive data to evaluate its performance effectively.
He highlighted the importance of functional civil registration systems to ensure all births and deaths are recorded.
Represented by Alhaji Ibrahim Darazo, NPC Federal Commissioner, Kwarra referenced the 2024 State of the World Population (SWOP) report, launched in Nigeria on April 24, which dedicated a chapter to inclusiveness in data collection.
He stressed that African censuses must strive to count everyone, ensuring no one is left unaccounted for.
Kwarra further explained that inclusive data means collecting information that represents all people, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or location.
“It is about closing data gaps that unintentionally aid inequality and addressing risks such as groupthink, blind spots, and biases that can impair decision-making and distort outcomes,” he added.
By committing to these efforts, UNFPA and the Federal Government aim to create a more equitable and resilient future for all Nigerians.
