FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
Edo State government through its Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning has commenced a training programme in partnership with the National Bureau of Statistics, NBS, as a prerequisite to setting up a functional bureau of statistics.
Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Osilama Okuofu stated that the initiative is geared towards the enhancement of Gross Domestic Product, GDP, computation capabilities in the state.
He added that the collaborative initiative is aimed at strengthening the skills of statisticians in Edo State and anchored on the need to ensure accurate and reliable data for informed decision-making by policy initiators.
Okuofu praised the partnership between the National Bureau of Statistics and the state government, saying “This collaboration demonstrates our commitment to statistical excellence. Accurate GDP data will significantly impact budgeting, policy-making and economic development in Edo State”.
He highlighted the essence of setting up the State Bureau of Statistics to include gathering vital socio-economic data, having the right skills-set for GDP computation, analysis and utilisation for economic development and growth.
Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr Iserhienrhien Efe, commended the state government and the commissioner for implementing and giving priority to the establishment and functionality of the State Bureau of Statistics.
He also appreciated the commissioner for his determination and working tirelessly for the success of the establishment of the bureau.
Iserhienrhien urged the team to show dedication, saying, “This partnership showcases the importance of interagency collaboration in strengthening statistical capacity.
“The success of the initiative paves the way for independent functionality of the proposed bureau, future collaborations with NBS and solidifying the commitment to statistical excellence in Edo State and Nigeria as a whole.”
