In a significant move to enhance data-driven decision-making, Joseph Eboigbe, the Commissioner for Finance, Budget, Economic Planning and Development, has advocated for the creation of the Edo State Bureau of Statistics (ESBS).
Represented by Mr. Bernard Aigbe, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, at a key event, the Commissioner underscored the importance of establishing the ESBS. “The Commissioner who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Bernard Aigbe, during an event titled “Dissemination of Findings of the Needs Assessment Conducted by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) to Set Up the Edo State Bureau of Statistics (ESBS) to stakeholders.” said the event was borne out of the need for Edo to actualize the implementation of the National Bureau of Statistics law as a sub-national to complement what NBS is doing on behalf of Nigerians, adding that the event was held to share the findings of the need assessment exercise carried out by the NBS, geared towards establishing the Edo State Bureau of Statistics.”
The Commissioner lauded the National Bureau of Statistics for its exemplary role in data management and its support in the needs assessment, vital for determining the necessary infrastructure and organizational framework for the ESBS.
Highlighting the critical nature of timely data availability, he noted, “These statistical data must be collected, compiled and disseminated in a timely manner to policy makers, planners and researchers, hence the need to establish the Edo State Bureau of Statistics.”
The state’s commitment to statistical excellence was further emphasized by Mrs. Anne Ibrahim, an NBS official, who commended the Edo State Government’s investment in ICT and reforms, which are expected to facilitate a seamless launch of the ESBS.
Recommendations from the assessment included the organization of specialized training for staff, provision of a well-equipped office, modern tools, consistent surveys, and the development of a robust data dissemination platform, including a dedicated website.
The event also featured a dynamic question-and-answer session, allowing stakeholders to engage actively in the discourse.
In his closing remarks, Mr. David Obanubi, the Director of Statistics, expressed gratitude to all attendees for their valuable participation and contributions to the event.
