BENUE STATE LAUNCHES GROUNDBREAKING INITIATIVE TO COMPUTE FIRST-EVER STATE GDP
The Benue State Government, through the Benue State Bureau of Statistics (BSBS) in collaboration with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), will host a five-day intensive Training of Enumerators (TOE) from March 18–23, 2025, at the Federal Secretariat Conference Hall, Makurdi.
KEY DETAILS
– Date: March 18–23, 2025
– Time: 9:00 AM daily
– Venue: Federal Secretariat Conference Hall, Makurdi
– Objective: Equip enumerators with advanced data collection methodologies for accurate BSGDP computation.
WHY THIS MATTERS
The BSGDP computation marks a transformative leap in Benue State’s economic planning. By generating localized GDP data, the exercise will:
– Empower Policymakers: Provide granular insights into sectoral contributions (agriculture, manufacturing, services) to guide investment and resource allocation.
– Attract Development Partners: Establish credible economic indicators to attract private-sector investors and international aid.
– Strengthen Governance: Enable real-time monitoring of the state’s progress toward the Benue Development Strategy 2025–2034 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
STATISTICIAN GENERAL’S STATEMENT
Mr. Kumafan Dzaan, Statistician General and CEO of BSBS, emphasized the historic significance of the initiative: “This training is the cornerstone of Benue’s journey toward data sovereignty. For the first time, we will have a comprehensive, state-specific GDP framework to inform decisions that directly impact our people. We urge all citizens to welcome and support our enumerators, their cooperation will shape Benue’s economic future.”
TRAINING FOCUS AREAS
Enumerators will be trained in cutting-edge techniques, including:
– Digital data collection tools for real-time reporting.
– Sector-specific survey methodologies (agriculture, SMEs, informal economy).
– Ethical data handling and respondent confidentiality protocols.
– Quality assurance frameworks to ensure international standards.
CALL FOR PUBLIC COOPERATION
The Benue State Government calls on households, businesses, and community leaders to actively participate in the data collection exercise commencing March 24, 2025. Accurate data relies on public trust and collaboration. Enumerators will carry official identification badges and NBS/BSBS authorization letters.
GOVERNOR HYCIENTH ALIA’S VISION
His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hycienth Iormem Alia, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to innovation: “This exercise aligns with our pledge to harness data for transformative governance. The BSGDP will position Benue as a leader in sub-national economic intelligence, unlocking opportunities for all citizens.”
Source: Information Officer
Benue State Bureau of statistics (BSBS).
