By Mardiyyah Abubakar
Nigeria needs accurate and reliable national data to strengthen planning, policymaking and economic development.
The Media Adviser to the Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, NILDS, Mohammed Abdulkadri, made the call in Abuja, while receiving the 2026 Spectacular Achievers Award from the All Progressive Support Initiative, APSI.
He said reliable data was essential for understanding Nigeria’s population, professional workforce and other critical areas required for effective national planning.
According to him, accurate data can support better decisions in economic growth, transportation, industrial development and policymaking.
Abdulkadri also challenged APSI to make data an inclusion part of its development agenda, particularly by paying greater attention to women and their participation in national affairs.
He said better information about the population would help policymakers identify gaps and develop more effective responses to the country’s development needs.
Presenting the award, APSI Human Resource Director and Kogi State Coordinator, Ayokunle Ajayi, said the organisation is recognising Nigerians with the experience and capacity to contribute to national development.
Ajayi, who represented APSI Chairman Noah Akobona, highlighted Abdulkadri’s career at NTA, his coverage of the National Assembly and defence sector, as well as his service as Special Adviser on Media to former Defence Minister, Major General Bashir Magashi (retd).
He also cited Abdulkadri’s involvement in a presidential think-tank on barracks rehabilitation and his current role at NILDS.
Abdulkadri described the award as recognition of his years of service and a responsibility to contribute more to national development.
Edited by Julian Osamoto
