Abuja:Vice-President Kashim Shettima has emphasized the importance of strengthening Nigeria’s data systems to promote evidence-based policy-making. He believes this approach is crucial for accelerating economic transformation and improving public service delivery.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Shettima conveyed this message during the third International Conference and Golden Jubilee Celebration of the Chartered Institute of Statisticians of Nigeria (CISON) in Abuja. Represented by Mr. Fred Eklaga, the Technical Assistant in the Office of the Vice-President, Shettima highlighted that credible statistics are essential for effective governance, economic planning, public accountability, and investment decision-making.
Shettima noted that the success of the Federal Government’s economic reforms depends on reliable data to assess impacts on poverty, employment, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He pointed out several challenges, including outdated population data and inadequate measurement of informal economic activities, stressing the need for a professionally conducted census and better coordination among institutions.
The vice-president also underscored the potential of big data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in improving forecasting and planning. He called for integrating various data sources to better anticipate shortages and supply chain disruptions. Furthermore, Shettima emphasized the need for organizations to incorporate statistical insights into budgeting and investment decisions, while protecting privacy and confidentiality.
He indicated the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), improving state statistical agencies, and digitizing records. Shettima urged CISON to uphold professional standards, enhance data quality, and expand training in modern statistical methods and data ethics.
In his closing remarks, Shettima declared the conference open, expressing hope for CISON’s future contributions to evidence-based governance and national development. Other speakers, including Prof Bashir Imono of the Ghana Statistical Association and World Bank Lead Economist Liliana Souso, echoed the need for a more integrated and responsive statistical system in Nigeria.