By Jeremiah Awuapilah & Precious Samuel
Benue State Government, through the Bureau of Statistics (BSBS) in collaboration with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) is to hold a five-day intensive Training of Enumerators (TOE) to equip them with advanced data collection methodologies for accurate BSGDP computation.
According to a press statement signed by the Information Officer, Benue State Bureau of statistics (BSBS), Mr. David Atule and made available to The Voice, the training is scheduled to commence from March 18 to 23, 2025, at the Federal Secretariat Conference Hall, Makurdi.
According to the statement, the BSGDP computation marks a transformative leap in Benue State’s economic planning by generating localized GDP data.
It added that the exercise will empower policymakers, provide granular insights into sectoral contributions (agriculture, manufacturing, services) to guide investment and resource allocation as well as attract development partners, adding that it will establish credible economic indicators to attract private-sector investors and international aid.
The statement further stated that the BSGDP computation would 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).
The statement quoted the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hycienth Iormem Alia, as reaffirming 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.”
The statement further quoted the Statistician General and CEO of BSBS, Mr. Kumafan Dzaan as emphasizing on 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.”
According to the information officer, 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 as well as quality assurance frameworks to ensure international standards.
The statement therefore called on households, businesses, and community leaders to actively participate in the data collection exercise commencing on March 24, 2025.
“Accurate data relies on public trust and collaboration. Enumerators will carry official identification badges and NBS/BSBS authorization letters”. The statement added.
