The Chairman of the National Population Commission, Nasir Kwarra, has officially concluded his five-year tenure and handed over to the Federal Commissioner representing Niger State, Muhammad Dattijo.
Dattijo will serve as acting Chairman pending the swearing-in of Aminu Yusuf by President Bola Tinubu.
The handover ceremony which took place at the NPC Headquarters in Abuja had Federal Commissioners, the Director-General, Directors, and staff of the Commission in attendance.
According to a statement issued by the commission on Wednesday morning, Kwarra expressed gratitude to his colleagues and subordinates for their cooperation throughout his time in office.
He attributed his administration’s achievements to collective commitment and professionalism.
The statement noted, “Hon. Kwarra expressed appreciation to the Federal Commissioners, Management and Staff of the NPC for their unwavering support and dedication throughout his five-year tenure, highlighting the commission’s strides in strengthening data collection systems, digitizing Civil Registration and Vital Statistics system and advancing preparations for the forthcoming national Population and Housing Census.”
Highlights of the occasion included emotional farewells and tributes, the signing of the official handover notes, the presentation of a gift to Kwarra, and a group photograph to commemorate the day.
Kwarra was appointed in 2020 by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
He successfully led the commission during one of its most critical periods — the build-up to Nigeria’s first population and housing census in nearly two decades.
The last national census was conducted in 2006, making the forthcoming exercise a key national priority.
The NPC recorded amazing progress in digital mapping and enumeration area demarcation, a technological shift intended to modernise census operations and improve data accuracy, under his leadership.
However, the census initially scheduled for 2023 was postponed due to the transition of government.
The incoming substantive Chairman awaiting swearing in, is expected to ensure the completing of the country’s long-delayed census, which is crucial for evidence-based planning and equitable national development.
