South East Governors Forum (SEGOF) has unveiled plans to launch a global electronic registration platform for Nigerians of Igbo descent in preparation for the upcoming nationwide census.

The initiative aims to gather accurate demographic data that will support regional planning and fast-track development in Igboland.

The announcement was made by the Director-General of SEGOF, Senator Uche Ekwunife. She explained that the platform was designed to determine the actual population of Igbo both within Nigeria and globally. The data will serve as a foundation for advocating for increased resource allocation and improved representation for the Igbo.

Highlighting the importance of the initiative, Ekwunife noted that while Igbo are often considered as one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria, their numerical strength has historically been underreported, primarily due to limited participation in previous national census exercises.

“The outcome of this project will provide accurate population figures and reliable data to support development initiatives and policy advocacy within Igbo communities,” Ekwunife said.

She emphasised that the platform would be accessible to all Igbo, regardless of their location, allowing for a seamless and inclusive registration process. The initiative, she said, reflects SEGOF’s commitment to unity, visibility and strategic development across the regions.

According to Ekwunife, the data collected through the platform would be crucial for governance, economic planning and ensuring equitable distribution of national resources.

Providing further details, she explained that once launched, all individuals of Igbo heritage would be expected to access the user-friendly website, complete the registration form and answer specific questionnaires designed to gather comprehensive demographic data.

She called on all people of Igbo ethnic nationality, including indigenous Igbo and all people of Igbo extraction living in other Nigerian states and in the Diaspora, to actively participate in the process. “This registration is a critical step in our people’s preparation for the national population census,” she added.

She highlighted the broader benefits of the initiative, stating that accurate data would not only strengthen the Igbo nation’s political and economic standing but also enhance security coordination through better intelligence gathering.

“It will help eliminate the chronic underrepresentation of Ndigbo in population figures and ultimately empower the Igbo in political negotiations, economic investments and developmental planning,” she stated.

The demographic insights generated from the platform will inform both local and national strategies, ensuring the Igbo are positioned to thrive in Nigeria’s evolving landscape. (Daily Sun)