RSSeNEWS to be determined...

Nigeria's National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) is set to collaborate with a range of other organisations to generate the data required for implementation of the country's Vision 20:2020 programme.

Vision aims to position Nigeria amongst the world's top 20 economies by 2020. Currently, its economy is growing but unemployment - especially amongst the young – is high, and corruption remains a problem.

Reliable statistics are essential to gauging the scale of the challenges, and progress towards the Vision's goals. NBS has secured funding guarantees from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and donor agencies for its data gathering.

The bureau is working with Google to map and survey agricultural activity. Google maps launched in Nigeria in February 2010, but much data is incomplete. Google is encouraging anyone with a Google account to use its online map maker tool and contribute information.

To establish levels of economic activity, NBS is working with CBN, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), the federal Ministry of Commerce and others. The aim is to register and survey all companies employing one or more people.

To improve data quality NBS is collaborating with the Independent National Electoral Commission. The bureau, which employs employs 10,500 people to gather data, has embarked upon a wholesale overhaul of its management, processes, methodologies and infrastructure.