Evaluation and Adjustment of Demographic Data Using Nigerian-Selected Censuses and Surveys

Sunday Adedini, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Nigeria
Sunday Abatan, Federal University Oye-Ekiti
Olaide Ayodeji, Federal University Oye-Ekiti

Robust policymaking and programme implementation in low-, middle- and high-income countries require timely and reliable demographic data. Also, implementation of evidence-based socioeconomic and public health planning relies heavily on complete and accurate data. In Africa, censuses, civil registration and vital statistics, and specialized surveys are the major sources of demographic data. The quality of demographic data in Nigeria – the most populous African country, cannot be taken at face value – they need interrogation, evaluation, and possibly some adjustment to ascertain their quality and sensible use. Thus, this study assessed the quality of selected Nigeria demographic data. Data for the study came from available censuses (1991 and 2006 censuses) and surveys (Demographic and Health Surveys of 1999, 2003, 2013, and 2018). The implications of emerging results in terms of data quality for the socio-economic planning and development of Nigeria’s critical sectors are discussed.