Diran Iyantan, a former federal commissioner in the National Population Commission (NPC), has advised President Bola Tinubu to include the biometric data gathering in the population census initiated by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Mr Iyantan advised at the weekend in Akure while declaring his intention to contest the Ondo governorship election under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) platform. 

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should prioritise the inclusion of biometric data gathering in the 2024 census. This will ensure that everyone counted is truly accounted for through biometric tracking data systems,” the ex-NPC boss said.

In April 2023, the Buhari regime initiated the 2023 population and housing census. It halted the exercise, citing the rescheduled gubernatorial and state houses of assembly polls as the reason for stopping it.

“However, I firmly believe it was a missed opportunity,” said Mr Iyantan. “If we include this vital component of biometric data gathering in the NPC budget, it will authenticate everyone counted and serve as a foolproof way to prevent crimes and address critical issues through proper identification and management of citizens’ data.”

Mr Iyatan thanked Mr Tinubu for his commitment to completing the exercise, saying it was important that the present administration incorporate scientific methodologies in the counting exercise. 

While asking stakeholders to join him in advocating for the inclusion of biometric data gathering in the 2024 census, Mr Iyatan stressed that he was committed to championing the cause for prosperity.

“By doing so, Nigeria will only need to update its census figures periodically without having to conduct the entire exercise of national headcount all over again. Moreover, with the press of a button, we will be able to access the data of any citizen with biometric watertight identification,” he stated.

Meanwhile, he noted that his decision to join the state’s governorship race was driven by his love for the people and his commitment to development.

Mr Iyantan, an erstwhile commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy affairs in the state, said he has closely witnessed the challenges faced by the people, from inadequate infrastructure to limited access to quality healthcare and education. 

“Education will be a top priority in my administration. I firmly believe that quality education is the bedrock of any successful society. I will work tirelessly to improve our state’s education standard, ensuring that our children receive the best possible education and are equipped with the skills needed to compete globally.

” I will implement policies that support our farmers, providing them with modern techniques, access to finance, and markets for their produce. By doing so, we will ensure food security, create employment opportunities, and boost our economy,” Mr Iyantan added.