The Chairman, National Population Commission (NPC), Mr Aminu Yusuf, has appealed to traditional rulers in Imo to support efforts toward effective birth and death registration and the next national census.
Yusuf made the call in a statement issued after a visit to Eze Emmanuel Okeke, the Chairman of Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, in Owerri.
The NPC Chairman said traditional institutions remain crucial partners in gathering accurate demographic data needed for planning, resource allocation, and sustainable development across Nigeria.
“Traditional rulers are indispensable partners in advancing these national objectives.
“When our royal fathers speak, communities listen,” he said.
He explained that while awaiting the census proclamation, the Commission continued to manage the Civil Registration and Vital Statistics system, with emphasis on birth and death registration.
Yusuf noted that birth registration secured legal identity and access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and social protection for every child.
“Without it, many children remain invisible in systems designed to serve and protect them,” he said.
He urged traditional rulers to intensify enlightenment and community mobilisation, assuring that census and civil registration processes were safe, confidential, and vital for development.
Yusuf also commended Okeke for his leadership and contributions to peace and cohesion, pledging the Commission’s commitment to professionalism and collaboration.
Responding, Eze Okeke thanked the delegation, describing the visit as a gesture of respect and inclusiveness, and assured support from traditional rulers in Imo.
Those present include Chairmen of the traditional rulers Council for Okigwe, Orlu, and Owerri zones, as well as members of the Imo State Council of Chiefs.
The visit is part of the Commission’s nationwide engagement with community and traditional leaders to boost participation in population and vital registration activities. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Funmilayo Adeyemi
