Upcoming census will generate dependable data for development – Ogwa

The federal commissioner of the National Population Commission, NPC, for Cross River State, Navy Capt Charles Ogwa (rtd), has stated that the 2023 Population and Housing Census will generate extensive data that every sector of society could use for proper planning and development.

Ogwa said the vision of the commission is to conduct a credible census that would be reliable and durable.

He spoke in an interview in Calabar, the state capital.

He said to achieve this vision; they have inaugurated a publicity committee to help them reach all classes of people about the importance of the census exercise.

He said they have also held capacity-building exercises in Calabar and other parts of the country to illustrate the importance of the census and to equip members of the publicity committee to respond to basic questions from members of the public, which will encourage them to participate in the process effectively.

Ogwa said that the 2023 Population and Housing Census would check the inflation of population that could destroy the credibility of the exercise.

In another related interview, Commissioner for Information Eric Anderson said the population exercise would help the government and those who use data in their works.

He commended the federal government for deciding to hold the exercise after 17 years.

Anderson said the state would partner with NPC to ensure the exercise succeeded in Cross River.

“As a government, we will partner with NPC. As much as possible and depending on affordability, we will extend required supports.”

He pledged to use government machinery to inform and educate the state about the exercise.