Nigeria's legislative body is poised to overhaul its outdated statistical framework with a proposed bill to repeal the Statistics Act of 2007, signaling a significant shift toward modernization. The House of Representatives held a public hearing to discuss the new legal framework, which aims to adapt the nation's statistical practices for the digital age and improve data accuracy and accessibility.
Stakeholders, including the National Bureau of Statistics, have emphasized the need for a robust statistical system to support evidence-based policymaking. "A modernized statistical framework is crucial for national development and economic planning," said Dr. Adeyemi Fadeyi, Director of Statistics at the Bureau. His statement underscores the urgency for reliable data in an increasingly complex socio-economic landscape.
As Nigeria grapples with challenges such as economic diversification and effective governance, the passage of this new law could enhance the country’s ability to leverage data for strategic development. If successful, this legislative move not only aims to enhance statistical integrity but could also foster greater transparency and accountability in governance, paving the way for informed decision-making in the years ahead.