The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has raised concerns over the lack of accurate data in many government institutions.
The center stated that the gap is responsible for the failure of several public policies and development programs across Nigeria.
Speaking at the closing session of a three-day training on data analysis using Python, CITAD Executive Director, Engr. Yunusa Z. Ya’u, noted that most government agencies and institutions do not have reliable data to inform their work, making it difficult for policies to be properly designed or effectively implemented.
“The absence of reliable data leads to ineffective policies and programs,” Ya’u said, in remarks delivered on his behalf by Mr. Hamza Ibrahim, CITAD’s Senior Programme Officer, Research and Communications Unit.
“This training is intended to strengthen their skills in research and data management for use in policy formulation, education, and program development,” Ya’u explained.
He emphasized the growing importance of data beyond academic research, pointing out its relevance to governance and policy planning. “CITAD organized the training after observing that data is increasingly important, not only for academic work but also for public policy,” he added.
The CITAD director also revealed the massive interest the training received when advertised.
“We received over 10,000 applications within a short period. We intended to train only 25 people. We had to screen and select the participants to be trained in phases. The first batch was a success, and today we are concluding the second batch.”
The training brought together 25 selected professionals from academia, civil society organizations, and government agencies.
The participants represent the second batch of beneficiaries under the Centre’s ongoing data training initiative.