Vice President Shettima Advocates For Inclusive Data Practices To Guide Government Strategies

Vice President Kashim Shettima emphasized the importance of improved data collection, analysis and deployment of technology to receive comprehensive evidence for guiding government decisions, investments and development strategies.

Speaking on Thursday at the 2024 World Population Day event in Abuja, the vice president highlighted the significance of this year's theme, which focused on the impact of data and the power of inclusive data practices.

During the event held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Shettima stressed the need to strengthen data systems, enhance human resources and foster partnerships to ensure a resilient and fair future for all Nigerians.

"Data is life. Data is our evidence. Data is our performance. It is the most realistic picture of situations, trends, and patterns; it tells us how many we are, with an understanding of the age structure, sex structure, location, and more," Shettima said, as per the official State House website.

"Data is the true story of our experiences and informs us about today and the future through scientific projections, forecasting, and analysis. Despite our last census taking place about 18 years ago, Nigeria has never relegated the importance of data."

The day called for renewed efforts in improving data collection, analysis and the use of modern technology, as per the vice president. He noted that the government needed to gather more thorough and inclusive evidence in the form of data.

He acknowledged that the lack of inclusive data has been a huge challenge in Nigerian governance for many years.

However, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu leading the country, Shettima assured the Nigerians that they have a leader who valued numbers and recognized their importance in national development, given the former's background as a top-notch accountant.

He also revealed plans for a Presidential Initiative for Youth Enterprise Clusters valued at N110 billion, noting that this initiative will complement existing efforts like the Youth Data Bank, National Youth Development Bank and the already established N110 billion Youth Investment Fund.

Furthermore, as Chairman of the National Economic Council (NEC), the vice president promised to utilize this position and other networks under his authority to prioritize the needs of individuals and communities in advancing development efforts.

Tinubu earlier this week directed to review projects that require more funds, especially major ones from the Ministry of Works, to ensure they are managed with probity, proficiency and diligence in execution.