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From Shafa’atu Suleiman, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Government has commenced a large-scale demographic dividend profiling exercise aimed at generating accurate data to guide long-term development planning across the state’s 23 local government areas.
The survey, officials say, will provide vital insights into population trends and help shape future policies in health, education, employment, and social welfare.
Supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the European Union’s Serah Project, the ten-day household data survey will target six wards in each LGA, making it one of the most extensive data collection efforts undertaken in the state in recent years.
Speaking during the orientation sessions held simultaneously across the three senatorial districts, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Abubakar Muhammad Zayyana, underscored the critical role of enumerators in ensuring the success of the exercise.
“The success of the survey depends on the quality of data collected and the diligence of the enumerators, this initiative will provide Sokoto with reliable demographic information to guide policy decisions and harness the state’s demographic dividend for sustainable development.”
Represented by the Director of International Cooperation, Alhaji Musa Muhammad Wamakko, the Commissioner urged enumerators to demonstrate professionalism, courtesy, and accuracy during fieldwork.
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He assured them that adequate provisions had been made to facilitate a smooth and effective data-gathering process.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Shagari Local Government, Barrister Maidawa Kajiji, who spoke on behalf of all 23 local government chairmen, commended the state government and development partners for their foresight, describing the exercise as timely and essential to improving the well-being of citizens.
“This exercise is for the benefit of our people and deserves the full backing of all councils. I am calling on enumerators to dedicate themselves to achieving its lofty goals.”
The training, led by Lead Trainer Engineer Bilyaminu Bawan Allah, covered key areas such as survey objectives, data collection techniques, and the use of digital tools including KoboCollect and ODK to ensure efficient and standardised reporting.
As the exercise progresses, state officials express confidence that the data gathered will equip Sokoto with a credible evidence base to plan more effectively for population growth and drive targeted development across the state.
