The World Bank has raised alarms about Nigeria’s inadequate statistical performance, highlighting that the nation falls short compared to aspirational peers such as Mexico, Colombia, South Africa, and Brazil.
During a recent visit from a World Bank delegation, statistics were emphasized as crucial for Nigeria’s development goals. Presenting insights on how improved statistics can bolster the country’s reform and growth agenda, it was suggested that an investment of between $10 million and $15 million annually could significantly enhance the nation’s statistical infrastructure.
A World Bank official noted that Nigeria’s current statistical performance does not align with that of its counterparts, emphasizing the need for substantial investment. He proposed that such an investment would elevate Nigeria’s statistics to the level of its peers.
In response, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning assured that the Federal Government remains committed to protecting the independence of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). He praised the Bureau’s efforts in consistently supplying credible data that various international organizations rely upon, stressing that there would be no governmental interference in NBS operations.
The Minister also expressed gratitude for the World Bank’s ongoing financial and technical support, which he identified as vital for strengthening the agency’s institutional capacity.
Furthermore, the Statistician-General of the Federation and NBS CEO emphasized that increased investment in statistics is critical for national progress. He acknowledged the government’s recent decision to increase the Bureau’s budget to its highest level in the past decade, but reiterated that continued funding and robust partnerships with development agencies would further enhance the agency’s capabilities.
