The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has warned that the persistent lack of accurate and reliable data across government agencies is significantly undermining the effectiveness of public policies and development programs in Nigeria.

This concern was raised during the closing session of a three-day training on data analysis using Python, where CITAD's Executive Director, Engineer Yunusa Z. Ya'u, highlighted how the inability of institutions to base their plans on credible data remains one of the biggest obstacles to meaningful development in the country.

"The absence of reliable data leads to ineffective policies and programs," Ya'u stated in a message delivered on his behalf by Mr. Hamza Ibrahim, CITAD's Senior Programme Officer in the Research and Communications Unit.

According to Ya'u, without accurate data, government institutions are often forced to formulate policies based on assumptions rather than evidence, resulting in outcomes that fail to address citizens' real needs.

Data: A Fundamental Pillar for Policymaking

The CITAD Executive Director emphasized that data has evolved beyond being merely an academic tool to become a fundamental pillar for evidence-based policymaking in today's governance landscape.

"Data is increasingly important, not only for academic work but also for public policy," he noted, underscoring its critical role in effective governance.

CITAD has called on relevant authorities to prioritize investments in data systems and research infrastructure. The organization stressed that improving the country's data ecosystem is essential for development planning, effective service delivery, and accountability in governance.

The training on data analysis using Python represents part of CITAD's efforts to build capacity in data management and utilization among stakeholders, contributing to a more data-driven approach to addressing Nigeria's development challenges.