Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerians who have yet to obtain a National Identity Number (NIN) to register without delay, saying accurate population data is critical to effective national planning, improved public services and sustainable development.
In her message marking this year’s World Population Day, the First Lady said Nigeria’s rapidly growing population makes it imperative for the government to maintain reliable demographic records to guide policy decisions and allocate resources efficiently.
She stressed that comprehensive population data would strengthen government planning across key sectors, including healthcare, education, housing, employment and social welfare, ensuring that the needs of citizens are adequately addressed.
“I encourage every Nigerian to register and obtain a National Identity Number (NIN), if they have not done so,” Senator Tinubu said.
According to her, widespread NIN registration will provide government institutions with accurate information needed to formulate policies that reflect the country’s changing population dynamics.
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“Accurate population data will enable the government to plan effectively and provide essential services for Nigeria’s growing population,” she stated.
The First Lady linked this year’s World Population Day theme to the importance of investing in people, particularly women and young people, whom she described as central to Nigeria’s future growth and prosperity.
She said expanding access to quality healthcare, education and economic opportunities would empower citizens to reach their full potential while contributing meaningfully to national development.
“Today I join the global community in support of our commitment to building a future where every individual, especially women and young people, have access to quality healthcare, education and opportunities to reach their full potential,” she said.
Senator Tinubu noted that Nigeria’s demographic expansion should not be viewed as a burden but as an opportunity that requires strategic planning, sound policies and inclusive governance.
She urged governments at all levels, development partners, civil society organisations and citizens to work together to improve the wellbeing of families, strengthen social protection programmes and create opportunities for the country’s youthful population.
The First Lady also emphasised that reliable identity management systems, backed by broad NIN enrollment, would enhance service delivery, support national development initiatives and improve the implementation of government programmes.
She called on Nigerians to embrace their collective responsibility in building a more prosperous nation by participating in initiatives that promote accurate population records and sustainable development.
World Population Day is observed annually on July 11 to raise awareness about global population issues and encourage actions that improve the quality of life for people through better planning, equitable access to services and sustainable development policies.
