The Lagos State Government, in collaboration with development partners, has emphasized the need for comprehensive and inclusive data collection to promote equity, resilience, and sustainable growth. This was highlighted during the 2024 World Population Day celebration, organized by the Lagos Bureau of Statistics under the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget. The event, held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) in Alausa, Ikeja, focused on the theme: “Embracing the Power of Inclusive Data towards a Resilient and Equitable Future for All.”
World Population Day, celebrated annually on July 11, seeks to underscore the importance of accurate data collection to address global challenges. This year’s event brought together representatives from various organizations, including the National Population Commission (NPC), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), UNICEF, and academic institutions, who all echoed the importance of inclusive data practices for sustainable development.
In his remarks, Mr. Emmanuel Olajide, Coordinating Director of the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, highlighted the critical role of data in decision-making. He stated, “In a world where data drives decision-making, it is crucial that we prioritize inclusivity to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and valued. Let’s unlock the power of inclusive data to break down barriers, challenge biases, inform policy decisions, drive innovation, and foster global collaboration.”
Olajide also stressed the need for effective population management, advocating for the empowerment of women and communities as key drivers of sustainable development.
Dr. Omolaso Omosehin, the retired head of the Lagos Liaison Office of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), elaborated on the importance of inclusive data in achieving fairness and resilience in development processes. He emphasized that as efforts accelerate toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, inclusive data collection is vital to ensure that no one is left behind. “Data collection and analysis are essential for even development, skill-building, and resource allocation,” he said.
The Lagos State Director of the National Population Commission (NPC), Mr. Bamidele Sadiku, also reaffirmed the commission’s readiness to conduct a national census aimed at fostering sustainable development. He assured that all populations, including special groups such as institutional households, transient individuals, and the homeless, would be counted to ensure a truly inclusive census.
Josephine Ekhator, representing the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Nigeria, reiterated the agency’s commitment to supporting Lagos State in adopting inclusive data practices. She highlighted the role of inclusive data in fostering informed decision-making, policy development, and budget planning to ensure equity and inclusivity for all segments of the population.
The forum ultimately underscored the importance of inclusive data in driving sustainable growth and ensuring that development policies cater to the needs of all individuals, particularly marginalized groups, as Lagos continues to push for a more equitable and resilient future.
