The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has commenced the process towards the drafting of the third phase of the National Strategy for the Development of Statistics, NSDS.
The NSDS, which would cover the 2024-2028 period is a comprehensive framework to guide the systematic and coordinated development of statistical activities in the country, designed to enhance the quality, relevance, and accessibility of statistical data.
This is crucial for evidence-based decision-making, policy formulation, and national development planning.
Speaking at a National Stakeholders Engagement Workshop for the Drafting of the National Strategy for the Development of Statistics (NSDS) Phase III, the Statistician General (SG) of the Federation, Adeyemi Adeniran said “The agency is about to embark on a transformative journey towards the formulation of a new National Strategy for the Development of Statistics in Nigeria.”
According to Adeniran, the strategy will serve as a guiding light, steering the NBS towards a modernised and transformed statistical system.
He said; “In this age of data, we find ourselves at the crossroads of possibility and responsibility, for the path we chart today will shape the Nigeria of tomorrow.
“The development of this new strategy is a unique opportunity for us to assess our past, understand our present, and chart a course for our future.
“I firmly believe that every stakeholder represented in this room, brings with them, a wealth of experience, knowledge, and insight into this process. Your inputs are invaluable, as they will guide us in identifying the most pressing data needs and challenges in our society.”
As stakeholders, deliberate inputs should be made to the crafting of the new National Strategy for the Development of Statistics in Nigeria.
Adeniran said the agency would be guided by key principles of inclusivity, quality and accuracy, innovation and technology, capacity building, partnership, and collaboration.
“We must ensure that the statistical system caters to the needs of all segments of our society, leaving no one behind. This means addressing data gaps related to marginalised groups, regions, and sectors. This includes issues about gender, persons with disabilities, and those at the local government level. This principle is aligned with the spirit and letter of the global sustainable development agenda, which is to leave no one behind.” he noted
On quality and accuracy, Adeniran explained that the accuracy and quality of statistics are paramount.
He said; “We must continuously strive for excellence in data collection, analysis, and dissemination to maintain the trust of our users.
“Hence the importance of the quality of the output, soundness of the methodology and processes, and the robustness of our data sources cannot be understated; they are extremely vital, and due attention must be paid to it.”
Adeniran also said the bureau would embrace the latest technological advancements to streamline data collection, analysis, reporting, and dissemination processes, noting that the current unrelenting digital revolution offers new opportunities to enhance statistical capabilities.
The new NSDS– 2024-2028, will provide mechanisms for a holistic reform of the National Statistical System (NSS) which will ensure an integrated, unified data production system.
It is intended to cover the entire NSS by bringing together all agencies involved in data production and management across the three tiers of government.
The production process will include, engage, and involve major statistical stakeholders as well as policymakers at the federal, state, and local government levels; and also endeavour to integrate the statistical strategies and master plans of the national and sub-national governments.
According to Adeniran, the NSDS also serves as a comprehensive effort to present an assessment of the status of the NSS, as well as address the strategic issues to be implemented over 5 years.
The implementation of this new NSDS, he said; “will span 2024-2028, and result in transforming the entire National Statistical System for enhanced global competitiveness ranking of the NSS across the three tiers of government.”
While expanding and opening new frontiers and areas of statistical production to reflect the current realities on the ground, Adeniran noted that emerging issues would be adequately integrated.
The Director, of Information and Communications Technology, NBS, Biyi Fafunmi, said the purpose of NSDS is to provide a mechanism for further reform of the NSS and acceleration of statistical development in Nigeria.
According to him, NSDS engenders the development of an integrated, harmonized, coordinated, and coherent NSS to guarantee a unified data production process.
He said; “The importance of this workshop /dialogue cannot be over-emphasized given the opportunity it is availing us to build the new NSS that will be all-encompassing, participatory and meet Nigeria’s national need in the emerging trend of innovations currently evolving worldwide for national sustainability.”
Mercy Chukwudiebere
