Change of Baton as Kwarra Hands Over to Successor at National Population Commission

By Iyojo Ameh

The National Population Commission (NPC) has announced the completion of the tenure of its Executive Chairman, Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, marking the end of a defining era in the Commission’s modernization and reform drive.

In a statement issued by Mrs. Samiat Olabimpe Lawal, Director of Public Affairs, the Commission reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a smooth leadership transition, sustaining ongoing digital reforms, and deepening efforts toward credible, technology-driven demographic management in support of Nigeria’s national development goals.

Following the completion of his tenure on October 28, 2025, the Honourable Federal Commissioner representing Niger State, Hon. Muhammad Usman Dattijo, has assumed office as Acting Chairman of the National Population Commission.
He will oversee the affairs of the Commission pending the formal swearing-in of Hon. Aminu Yusuf (Talban Wushishi), who has been appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as the substantive Chairman of the Commission.

Appointed in October 2020 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, Hon. Kwarra’s leadership ushered in a period of institutional renewal and technological transformation. His tenure was marked by professionalism, strategic focus, and a clear vision that repositioned the Commission as a data-driven institution dedicated to evidence-based national planning.

Under his stewardship, the NPC made remarkable progress in census preparedness, digital mapping, and geo-spatial innovation, paving the way for Nigeria’s first-ever digital Population and Housing Census. Among his notable achievements were the implementation of the Electronic Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (e-CRVS) system and the National Geo-Referenced Infrastructure Geo-Spatial Data Repository, both of which modernized Nigeria’s demographic data infrastructure and enhanced decision-making across all levels of government.

Hon. Kwarra also strengthened inter-agency coordination and fostered partnerships with key international development organizations, including the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), World Bank, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA).

His administration equally prioritized staff welfare, capacity development, and institutional accountability, promoting a culture of innovation and service excellence within the Commission.

Hon. Yusuf’s appointment has been confirmed by the Senate, and his assumption of duty will commence officially upon inauguration by the President.