NPC Chairman Seeks Traditional Rulers’ Support For Birth Registration, Next Census
The Chairman of National Population Commission (NPC), Dr. Aminu Yusuf, has urged traditional rulers in Imo State to actively mobilize their communities toward effective birth and death registration, as well as the forthcoming Population and Housing Census.
Dr. Yusuf made the appeal on Thursday, 26 February 2026, during a courtesy visit to His Royal Majesty, Eze Dr. Emmanuel Okeke, CFR, the Eze Imo and Chairman of the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, in Owerri. He was accompanied by the Federal Commissioner representing Imo State, Prof. Uba Nnabue, the Federal Commissioner representing Enugu State, Hon. Ejike Ezeh, the Director-General of the Commission, Dr. Osifo Tellson Ojogun, the Director of Public Affairs, Nma Alhaji Shehu, and other senior officials of the Commission.
The NPC Chairman emphasized that traditional institutions remain vital partners in achieving accurate demographic data, which are essential for national planning, equitable resource allocation, and sustainable development.
“Traditional rulers are indispensable partners in advancing these national objectives. When our royal fathers speak, communities listen,” he said.
While awaiting the official proclamation for the conduct of the national census, Dr. Yusuf explained that the NPC continues to manage the Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) system in Nigeria, with particular focus on birth and death registration.
He highlighted that birth registration provides legal identity and access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and social protection.
“Without it, many children remain invisible in systems designed to serve and protect them,” he remarked.
Dr. Yusuf appealed to traditional rulers to intensify efforts in public enlightenment and mobilization, assuring that census and civil registration processes are safe, confidential, and crucial for equitable national development.
He also commended Eze Dr. Okeke for his exemplary leadership, wisdom, and contributions to peace and social cohesion, reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to transparency, professionalism, and sustained collaboration with traditional institutions.
In his response, Eze Dr. Emmanuel Okeke thanked Dr. Yusuf and his delegation for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of cultural respect and inclusiveness. He assured the NPC of the unwavering support of traditional rulers in Imo State in mobilizing residents to actively participate in the Commission’s programmes and initiatives.
Those in attendance included Chairmen Ezes Council, Okigwe, Orlu and Owerri Zones and eminent members of the Imo State Council of Chiefs.
The visit forms part of the Commission’s nationwide strategy to engage community and traditional leaders in promoting public participation in population-related and vital registration activities.
