President Bola Tinubu has rejected the National Population Commission’s (NPC) proposed N942 billion budget for the upcoming national housing and population census, citing the need for cost reduction.

During a meeting at the State House on February 24, 2025, with NPC officials led by Chairman Nasir Kwarra, Tinubu emphasized the need for a more economical approach. He proposed utilizing members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to reduce personnel costs.

“This stop-and-go activity on the census cannot work with me. So, we better have a definite path,” Tinubu stated, adding that a committee would be set up to review the budget and explore cost-saving measures.

An official at the meeting, speaking anonymously, confirmed that Tinubu supported the census but insisted the cost was excessive. “The President felt that N942bn was too much, so he directed that a committee be formed to reassess the budget,” the source revealed.

Another insider disclosed that Tinubu specifically suggested recruiting NYSC members for the census exercise to cut costs. “He was keen on making the process cheaper and suggested using youth corps members,” the official said.

Despite the President’s directive, details on the committee’s formation remain unclear. However, Tinubu underscored the importance of an accurate census for national planning, stressing that reliable demographic data is essential for employment, agriculture, and economic policies.

Nigeria’s last census was conducted in 2006, with multiple attempts since then failing due to funding constraints, insecurity, and logistical challenges. The 2023 census, planned under former President Muhammadu Buhari, was postponed due to budgetary issues and political transitions.