NPC CELEBRATES 12TH ANNUAL POPULATION LECTURE SERIES IN ABUJA

Today, the National Population Commission (NPC), in partnership with various development organizations, hosted the 12th Annual Population Lecture Series (APLS) at the Abuja Continental Hotel. Coinciding with the Bi-annual Nigeria Family Planning Conference, this year's event marks a significant milestone, celebrating a decade of constructive dialogue and collaborative efforts to address Nigeria's demographic challenges.

The theme for this anniversary, "The Power of Inclusive Data in Nigeria's Demographic Dynamics for Resilience and Sustainable Development," highlights the importance of data in shaping effective policies.

In his opening remarks, NPC Chairman, Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra underscored the critical role of understanding population dynamics in formulating sustainable policies for Nigeria's future. “Inclusive and disaggregated data is transformative,” he stated, particularly in enhancing health sector outcomes and advancing the goals of FP2030.

The primary objectives of APLS 12 are to raise awareness about Nigeria's population challenges, foster dialogue among stakeholders, and promote collaboration in population policy and management.

Hon. Kwarra encouraged participants to engage actively, sharing insights that could drive sustainable development efforts.

He also expressed gratitude to key supporters of the initiative, including the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Health and Chairperson of the APLS, Dr. (Mrs.) Salma Ibrahim Anas and the Executive Director of the Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN), Dr. Okai Haruna Aku. Hon. Kwarra acknowledged the presence of members from the National Assembly and esteemed Royal Fathers, emphasizing the crucial role of population issues in national planning.

The event featured a keynote lecture by Prof. Ismaila Zango Mohammed, who offered valuable insights into Nigeria's demographic landscape.

Participants were urged to harness the collective wisdom present at the event to tackle the pressing demographic challenges facing the nation, ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind in the quest for sustainable development.

The annual lecture featured a youth panel discussion and presentation of a compendium of the APLS Decade of Dialogue on Population and Development in Nigeria.