The Statistician-General of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer, National Bureau of Statistics, Mr. Adeyemi Adeniran, said there is a need to integrate databases and data systems for seamless data flow in Nigeria.
Adeniran also said the complex developmental challenges that the statistical products are expected to address include but are not limited to single-data sources, saying indicators are no longer sufficient to satisfy the need.
He stated this at the Bi-Annual meeting of the National Consultative Committee of Statistics in Asaba, Delta State.
According to him, the consciousness of the responsibility ahead informed the choice of the theme for the session, “Enhancing Data Integration and Interoperability within the Nigerian Statistical System.”
“We must equally enhance our ability to merge multiple datasets to generate insights that inform policies to address our developmental challenges and exploit growth opportunities around us,” he said.
“Given the theme of this session, the importance of gathering under the umbrella of the NCCS has never been more pronounced than it is today, while this platform of NCCS provides a mechanism for better coordination of statistical system as enshrined in the Statistics Act 2007, this platform also serves as a forum for sharing ideas, experiences, and knowledge.
“State-level GDP which is the second activity equally holds great significance for both the states and the wider statistics system in Nigeria. This is one data point that NBS or states have not been able to sufficiently provide to our data users.
“Data production is hard, especially in a developing environment like ours. However, the privilege of carrying out such a vital service for our country is an honour and a great opportunity, so we must not fail on the job. Every chance must be seized to show that we are equal to the task and that the trust reposed on us by the government and Nigerians is not in vain.
“Our discussions here and the decisions we make during these meetings must be taken seriously and followed through with a sense of obligation. And this goes for all the members of the NCCS, including us at NBS.”
While declaring the meeting open, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevweri said in Delta, statisticians and accurate data for planning are accorded pride of place.
Represented by the State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekpedayen, the governor stated, “We are very mindful of the role of accurate data and statistics in decision making.He added that “statisticians help to provide insights into the needs of our people, how and where to deploy resources, trend analysis for greater impact, and measurement of performance.” (The Guardian)