The National Population Commission (NPC) is to commence its first pre-test census from June 6 to 13, in 112 local government areas.
The Chairman of the Commission, Alhaji Isa Kwarra, stated this at a press briefing in Abuja.
He said the exercise was a critical planning process, to test all aspects of the census programme and instruments in advance, to ensure a successful census.
Alhaji Kwarra said the pre-test exercise would test methodology, questionnaires and data collection methods, as well as to assess the quality and usefulness of the Enumeration Area (EA) maps and the viability of already Demarcated Enumeration Areas (EADs).
The most recent census in Nigeria was conducted in 2006, where the population estimate was pegged at 140 million people; the results created controversy and was criticised as well as subject to litigation.
RN