The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), yesterday unveiled a Northern stakeholders forum of statisticians for the enactment of five-year National Strategy for Development of Statistics in Nigeria (NSDS).

The forum that gathered statisticians in public and private practice and in academia across Northern region in Kano, are expected to produce a comprehensive framework to guide the systematic development of statistical activities in the country.

Declaring the occasion open, the Statistician-General of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of National Bureau of Statistics, Prince Adeyemi Adeniran, said the new NSDS was anchored to enhance the quality, relevance, and accessibility of statistical data for making formulation and national development planning.

The SG stressed that the new NSDS, 2024-2028 will provide mechanisms for holistic reform of the National Statistical System NSS, which will ensure an integrated and unified data production system in the country.

Worried by challenges of data gap, accuracy and trust deficit of National statistical system, prince Adeniran reminded that the formation of the new NSDS must be inclusive and technological compliance to gain national and international trust.

According to him, “Statistics, often referred to as the ‘silent language of governance’, are the foundation of an informed, thriving society. They serve as the basis upon which policies and programs are shaped, resources allocated, and progress
evaluated.

“As we gather here today for this important task, we recognize that statistics are more than just numbers; they are the voice that tells the story of our states, informs our decisions, and paves the way for a brighter future. Therefore, it is vital that we have a robust strategy to guide the growth and development of the system that produces the statistics we rely on for our respective work”, SG Adeniran noted.

Earlier, the Kano State Statistician General, Dr. Aliyu Isa, expressed optimism that the workshop on the Production of the National Strategy for the Development of Statistics (NSDS) Phase III, 2024-2028 will shape the future of statistical development in the country.

Dr. Aliyu noted that the visionary approach of the present administration has significantly elevated the National Bureau of Statistics, setting new standards and pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in our field.