The chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Isa Kwarra, says the commission is working tirelessly to conduct the forthcoming national population and housing census.

Mr Kwarra disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja, saying it was in line with the federal government’s drive to address Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.

According to him, the exercise will generate inclusive and up-to-date data for evidence-based planning and policymaking.

“As the leading data-generating agency in Nigeria, the commission is committed to its mandate of generating reliable and acceptable demographic data for national planning and sustainable development,” he said.

He also appealed to all Nigerians to keep peace calm and shun the planned nationwide protest.

The chairman acknowledged the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly and that the commission emphasised the need to prioritise national stability, peace and security.

“The NPC understands the economic hardship and hunger faced by Nigerians but urges citizens to give the government time to address these challenges.

“The commission calls on Nigerians to have trust in President Bola Tinubu and give the administration time to deliver on its promises of a better Nigeria.

“The president is not unaware of the various challenges in the country.

“Hence, he is working round the clock to put in place policies and programmes that will deliver to Nigerians the full dividends of democracy within the shortest possible time,” said Mr Kwarra.

He highlighted some programmes the government had initiated to alleviate the living standards of Nigerians.

Mr Kwarra, however, urged all Nigerians to remain calm, focused and avoid actions that might compromise national peace and stability.

Some organisers are gearing up for a nationwide peaceful protest slated for August 1 to 10.

(NAN)