Date: 2016-11-14

The Emir of Okuta in Kwara, Abubakar Idris, on Sunday urged the Federal Government to commence preparations for the 2018 National Census. Idris made the appeal in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) in Okuta, Baruten Local Government area of the state.

He said it was important for the government to empower the National Population Commission (NPC) to begin preparations for the head count. exercise is very important to proper planning for national development.

According to him, the exercise is very important to proper planning for national development. exercise is very important to proper planning for national development. The emir, who is also the Chairman, Baruten Traditional Council, explained that "only an accurate census exercise can foster the growth we desire in this nation."

He prayed that current efforts to end terrorism would succeed before 2018 so that "the exercise will be well conducted among the entire populace without fear or favour and not leaving any region behind."

Idris said accurate census would help block leakages and excess use of public funds for undesirable projects by some political officer holders. The emir also called for creation of more local councils to fast tack rural development.

"In fact to me, instead of clamouring for creation of more states, I believe that creation of more local governments will be more beneficial especially to the people of rural communities, towards accelerated grassroots development.

"It is only this method that can assist us as a people on one side, and also develop us as a nation in general."

The monarch called for cooperation between the Presidency and National Assembly to enhance national unity and development.

NAN