ARFH joins Vice President His Excellency Kashim Shettima, the Chairman of the National Population Commission, UN Partners, international organizations, MDAs, development partners, CSOs, religious and traditional leaders, faith-based organizations, and academia to commemorate World Population Day 2024 at the State House in Abuja.
Representing ARFH at this significant event were our Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Kehinde Osinowo, and Communications Officer, Odukogbe Samson.
In his opening remarks, NPC Chairman Kwarra Isa Nasir emphasized the President’s commitment to prioritizing population and human capital development within the renewed hope agenda. He highlighted the critical role of inclusive data for planning and sustainable development, ensuring no one is left behind.
Distinguished speakers, including the UN Director and representatives of partner organizations, CSOs, the Senate House Committee, and the guest speaker, Associate Professor Sunday Adepoju Adedini from FUOYE, underscored the need for evidence-based planning in the context of Nigeria’s growing population. With the global population at 8.1 billion and Nigeria’s at over 218 million, making it the 6th most populous country worldwide and the most populous in Africa, there is an urgent need for timely censuses to address multidimensional needs. He noted that Nigeria’s population is projected to double by 2050, calling for proactive steps from the government to ensure no one is left behind.
In his address, Vice President His Excellency Kashim Shettima spoke about the transformative power of data in shaping policy actions for quality and affordable education and healthcare. He reiterated the President’s commitment to the well-being of youth and women, essential for achieving a demographic dividend.
ARFH remains steadfast in our dedication to improving health outcomes and empowering communities across Nigeria.
