Adedokun Waliyu 
Jick Lawrence, head of NPC public affairs department in Plateau, made this known on Monday while presenting a paper at a one-day capacity building workshop for journalists in Jos.
The National Population Commission (NPC) on Monday said more than N400billion has been earmarked for the census scheduled for March 29 till April 2.
Jick Lawrence, head of NPC public affairs department in Plateau, made this known on Monday while presenting a paper at a one-day capacity building workshop for journalists in Jos,
According to Jick, about N100billion had so far been expended on preparations ahead of the exercise.
He said; “Over N400 billion has been earmarked to be expended on the 2023 census.
“About N100 billion has so far been expended on preparations ahead of the exercise. Census is a very big and capital intensive exercise.
“Census has far-reaching socio-economic gains, and that some of the funds would go into the empowerment of about 1.5 million Nigerians.
“Those empowered would be paid monies ranging from N100,000 to N150,000 each.
“56,000 vehicles would be hired to enhance movement of personnel and materials, and about 800,000 personal digital assistants (PDAs) would be procured.
“The reflation of the economy, through the circulation of cash transferred into the hands of functionaries and clients who supply infrastructure and services, would add value to the economy.”
“Census is critical to development, and therefore, deserves critical attention. Items would be added to the questionnaire issued to households, which include ICT literacy, fertility and child survival, as well as deaths in the household in the last 12 months.
“Other questions will touch on difficulties in performing activities, sanitation, and climate change,” his paper added.
