2023 CENSUS MATERIALS: NPC CLEARS AIR, LISTS FIVE ITEMS APPROVED FOR AUCTION IN C’RIVER

The National Population Commission (NPC) has clarified concerns surrounding the auction of materials used for the 2023 national census in Cross River State, identifying five categories of items approved for disposal.

The clarification comes amid questions about the handling of equipment and other materials procured for the census exercise, which was postponed before it could take place.

The NPC is responsible for conducting population and housing censuses in Nigeria and maintaining reliable demographic records to support national planning. Census preparations typically require significant logistical resources, including equipment, supplies and other materials needed for data collection and field operations.

When a planned exercise is postponed or materials become surplus to operational requirements, government agencies may need to determine how those items should be managed. Where an auction is authorised, the process is expected to follow applicable public procurement and disposal rules.

By listing the five approved categories of items, the commission appears to be seeking to clarify the scope of the proposed disposal and address concerns about what is being auctioned. Details of the specific items, their condition and the approval process are important for ensuring transparency.

The disposal of public assets can attract public scrutiny because the materials were acquired using public resources. Clear documentation, appropriate valuation and an open process can help demonstrate that such assets are being handled responsibly.

The development also brings renewed attention to the costs associated with preparing for the 2023 census, which was postponed in April 2023. The exercise was intended to provide updated population data for planning public services, infrastructure and resource allocation.

Further information about the five categories of materials, the auction procedure and the authorities responsible for approving the disposal would help the public assess the full circumstances of the exercise in Cross River State.

Ultimately, the NPC's clarification highlights the importance of accountability in managing government assets, particularly when public expenditure is involved.