Nigeria plans to release GDP figures for states by July
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Nigeria plans to release GDP figures for states by July
The Statistician-General of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the National Bureau of Statistics, Prince Adeyemi Adeniran, has announced a pioneering initiative to compile Gross Domestic Product data for each of Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
He made the announcement in his keynote address at the first bi-annual meeting of the National Consultative Committee of Statistics held on Wednesday in Katsina State.
“There is currently no official state-level GDP data, which is why the NBS, as the coordinator of the national statistical system, has taken it upon itself to spearhead this initiative. We aim to support every state in compiling their GDP figures within the next two months,” Adeniran explained.
He emphasised the importance of dedicating sufficient time and resources to the ongoing State GDP exercise, which aligns with the theme of the session: ‘Promoting Development at the Sub-national Level Through Improved State GDP Compilation’.
“One of the most frequent data requests from users, including state governments, has been for State GDP figures. Stakeholders seek to understand the size and economic potential of states for developmental and investment purposes.
“As such, it was only fitting that the NBS coordinated efforts with the states to realise the vision of producing State GDP numbers for all 36 states and the FCT.
“This initiative follows the near completion of the national GDP rebasing exercise, which involved extensive data collection. Much of this data will feed into the State GDP computations, alongside data gathered at the state level through establishment surveys and administrative sources,” he added.
While significant progress has been made, Adeniran stressed the need for continued effort to finalise the exercise promptly, validate the results, and sensitise stakeholders ahead of the data release.
“A key objective of this meeting is to develop strategies to ensure states take full ownership of this exercise and its outcomes. Data production is only valuable if it is utilised effectively. Without state authorities’ ownership, the impact and usage of the data will be severely limited.
“Therefore, we have mandated the involvement of State Statistics Bureaus throughout the entire process,” he said.
Adeniran also expressed appreciation to Katsina State Governor Mallam Dikko Umar Radda for his support of statistical development in the state.
“You have demonstrated a strong commitment not only to data production but also to its application in policy formulation and programme design, as well as in strengthening the statistical system,” he noted.
Radda, represented by his Deputy Mallam Faruk Lawal Jobe, opened the two-day event, highlighting hospitality and tourism as vital components of sub-national GDP.
“The current administration recognises that Katsina State’s rich cultural heritage can attract investors and accelerate ease of doing business.
“Our policy reforms have begun to yield positive results, exemplified by the recent visit of key ambassadors, development partners, and international investors during the Eid-El Fitr celebrations. Their presence was not merely ceremonial but served as a platform for incubating business ideas, solidifying collaborations, and exploring investment opportunities.
“Hospitality and tourism are well-known drivers of economic growth through job creation, increased revenue, and boosting local economies.
“Moreover, economic growth should reflect the dynamic structure of the local economy. In Katsina State and other sub-national entities, it is expected to be pro-poor and inclusive,” Mallam Faruk Lawal concluded.
