The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) will remain independent, as it will continue to support the agency in exercising its functions of analyzing and disseminating statistical data on socio-economic issues in the country.

Sen. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu made this disclosure during a courtesy call on him by a team from the World Bank comprising of the WB Country Director Ndiame Diop and the WB Practice Manager for West and Central Africa Mr. Johan Mistiaen on Wednesday, 26 March, 2025.

Bagudu praised the NBS for providing credible statistical data that have been utilized by international and reputable organizations over the years, as it has been known to release timely and methodical data and thus promised noninterference of government in its affairs.

The Minister expressed gratitude to the World Bank for the financial and technical support to the National Bureau of Statistics for its efforts to strengthen the agency.

Earlier, the Mr. Johan Mistiaen in his presentation on the next level statistics to support Nigeria’s reform and growth agenda, observed that the country’s statistical performance was not at par with its aspirational peers as Mexico, Columbia, South Africa and Brazil. He suggested that investing about $10-15m annually into the country’s statistical system, can raise performance to that of its aspirational peers.

The Statistician General of the Federation and CEO of the NBS Prince Adeyemi Adeniran noted that investments in statistics will bring about more growth and development, he however appreciated the Federal Government for improved funding of the agency which was the highest in the last 10 years. He agreed that with more budget and more engagement with development partners, NBS can do better.

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in Nigeria, as the national statistical office, is responsible for collecting, compiling, analyzing, and disseminating official statistics on social, economic, demographic, and environmental activities, providing data for policy-making and national development.

Osagie Jacobs J.I (Mrs.)
Director Information & PR
26 March, 2025