THE Statistician-General of the Federation/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Prince Adeyemi Adeniran has highlighted the importance of media collaboration for effective communication of statistical data for planning and development on sustainable bases to the public
Prince Adeniran spoke on Friday at a Retreat organised by the Bureau for Journalists and Civil Society Organisations (CEOs) in Keffi, Nasarawa State.
Represented by the Director of Agriculture and Business Statistics Department, Biyi Fafunmi, he said the media and CSOs play an indispensable role in national statistics production, serving as a bridge between statistical agencies and the public.
Adeniran said by facilitating communication, promoting understanding, and fostering accountability, the media not only enhance the credibility and relevance of national statistics but also empower citizens to appraise more meaningfully with the data that shape their lives.
“As technology and media landscapes continue to evolve, the role of media in this context will continue to expand, requiring ongoing collaboration between NBS, the media, and innovation to ensure effective communication of statistical data for planning and development on sustainable bases.
“By reporting on statistical findings, the media contribute to informed debate on policy issues, thereby influencing public discourses and actions by policy makers.
“In other words, media coverage and reportage of national statistics can stimulate public interest and discussions about social, economic, environmental issues, prompting civic engagement and advocacy with the attendant positive implications for planning and development,” he said.
The NBS boss noted that with the emerging trends in digital and social media, there are new avenues for engaging audiences with national statistics through infographics, interactive graphics, and multimedia storytelling.
While noting that investigative journalism could expose flaws, biases, or limitations in national statistics through a thorough appraisal of data produced and reaching the respondents for confirmation of survey results, Adeniran affirmed that by critically analysing national data and government reports, media could encourage improvements in methods of data production and reporting thereby fostering a culture of transparency and accuracy in the data production processes.
He commended the media and the CSOs for the critical roles they are playing in making NBS improve on data deliverables, despite the challenges they encounter in their daily endeavours.
Earlier in his Welcome Address, the NBS’ Director of Communication and Public Relations, Mr. Sunday Ichedi, said the retreat aims to bridge the gap between data producers and data users, ensuring that statistical information is accurately conveyed to the public.
While stating that the NBS recognizes the challenges the media face in reporting on complex statistical issues, Mr Ichedi noted that the Bureau is committed to supporting the media in that regard.
“We believe that accurate and informed reporting of statistics is essential for promoting transparency, accountability, and evidence-based decision-making in Nigeria.
“By working together, we can ensure that statistical information is presented in a clear, concise, and unbiased manner, avoiding misinformation and promoting public understanding,” he said.