Abuja, Feb. 24, 2026 — Nigeria’s Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has announced plans to deepen collaboration with the National Population Commission (NPC) to strengthen birth registration, improve population data systems, and enhance women’s participation in national demographic programmes.
The Honourable Minister, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, made this known while receiving the Chairman of the NPC, Aminu Yusuf, and his delegation during a courtesy visit in Abuja.
She emphasized the ministry’s readiness to support community mobilization and sensitization efforts, particularly among women, to ensure wider participation in the Continuous Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) system and the upcoming Population and Housing Census.
“Accurate population data is critical to solving the challenges faced by women and families. It gives us the tools to plan better and respond effectively,” the minister said.
Driving Inclusive Development Through Data
Suleiman-Ibrahim stressed that strengthening data collection—especially birth registration—remains essential for national development. She noted that ensuring every child is registered at birth, whether in hospitals or at the community level, will provide a clearer picture of Nigeria’s population dynamics.
According to her, the ministry is committed to promoting gender equity, protecting children’s rights, and empowering families through policies backed by reliable statistics.
NPC Seeks Stronger Partnership
In his remarks, NPC Chairman Aminu Yusuf reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to working closely with the ministry to advance gender-responsive policies and improve access to credible demographic data.
He highlighted birth registration, particularly for the girl child, as a major priority, describing it as the foundation for legal identity and access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and social protection.
“Without proper registration, many children are left invisible in the system, limiting their opportunities in life,” he noted.
Focus on Census and National Planning
Yusuf also reiterated the NPC’s mandate as the custodian of Nigeria’s population data, stating that the commission remains focused on generating timely and accurate statistics to support evidence-based policymaking and equitable service delivery.
He identified the forthcoming national census as a key opportunity to strengthen Nigeria’s data systems and called for coordinated efforts to ensure its success.
Recognition and Global Engagement
The NPC Chairman commended the Ministry of Women Affairs for its leadership role, particularly in preparations for the 70th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70), where issues concerning women and girls are expected to take center stage.
The collaboration between both agencies is expected to enhance data-driven governance, improve social services, and ensure that women, children, and vulnerable groups are fully represented in national development planning.