The Honorable Minister of State, Budget and National Planning, Prince Clem Ikanade Agba, on Wednesday, inspected data collection center at the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) headquarters, Abuja.
Addressing top management staff of the Agency during a working visit, the Minister said that the visit was to enable him know the processes of data collection analysis and management, at the Agency, considering the importance of data, in budgeting and national planning.
He commended the Agency for ensuring professionalism in data production and stressed the need for the Agency to be appreciated and supported.
Agba pledged his commitment to accord NBS all necessary support to ensure continuous generation of quality data.
Briefing the Minister earlier, the Statistician General of the Federation, Dr. Yemi Kale, said that the Agency was responsible for the entire statistical system for economic coordination in Nigeria. He said that this task was facilitated through regular meetings with States and other relevant Agencies.
To ensure the authenticity, quality and smooth coordination of the data generated, Kale said that the Agency no longer used paper data processes, rather, the use of computer system/devices was being employed. He added that the use of computers reduced errors with three layers of checks by data editors and random auditing.
He explained that there were three systems of data production: System Administrative Statistics, National Survey of households, and National Integrated Survey of Establishment. Kale also said that with about 3,000 staff strength, “the Agency carries out regular training for middle level staff at Federal schools of Statistics in Kaduna, Enugu and Ibadan.”
Facilities inspected during the tour were: – the Call Center, where data from hard to reach areas in the country were collated, Data Centre, Server-Room connected with Ministries, Departments, Agencies and States; the Power Back-up Room and the Situation Room for monitoring all enumerators on field assignments.
On the Minister’s entourage were the Permanent Secretary, Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Olusola Idowu, the Director, Administration, Budget and National, Mr. A. O. Adekanye, among others.
Imaobong Udoh
For: Director, Information (BNP)
27th May, 2020.
