The National Population Commission (NPC) says the trial census in some parts of Kaduna is going according to plans.

Kaduna has been battling bandits and other violent criminals, raising fears the trial census might not hold this year. 

The spokesperson for the NPC in Kaduna, Rabiu Gaga, said on Wednesday that the exercise, covering some parts in nine local government areas (Makarfi, Kudan and Zaria in Kaduna North senatorial district, Igabi, Kaduna North and Chikun in Kaduna Central, Sanga, Jaba and Kachia in Kaduna South), commenced July 13 and would end July 30.

“The exercise has been hitch-free so far, and this is heartwarming as it serves as an indicator to the anticipated success of the forthcoming headcount, slated for next year,” he said. “We will use this exercise to prepare fully for the census proper; so far, no challenges whatsoever, and we are praying that a similar scenario manifests during the main headcount next year.”

According to him, the usual controversy associated with the recruitment of ad hoc staff during the headcount has not arisen because of the commission’s transparency.

Mr Gaga commended the local government council chairmen for cooperating with NPC to ensure the success of the census.

“Council chairmen have been very cooperative. They had attended the town hall meeting prior to the exercise and pledged their cooperation. I am pleased to say they have lived up to their pledge,” he added.

(NAN)