The federal government has unveiled plans to launch a new National Addressing Council (NAC) and a technical committee in 2024. This initiative aims to establish an effective national addressing system to enhance urban planning, economic growth, and financial inclusion.
Vice President Shettima Advocates for Standardisation
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who chaired a pre-meeting of the council at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday, highlighted the urgent need for a robust addressing framework in Nigeria. Speaking to stakeholders, he underscored the importance of the system for improving governance, logistics, and socio-economic development.
He stated:
“We cannot solve the challenges of urban planning, service delivery, or even basic navigation unless we establish a system that creates order. A robust addressing system is not just about convenience; it is about national development, security, and socio-economic progress.”
Challenges of the Current System
Shettima criticised the disorganised nature of the current addressing framework, noting its adverse effects on address verification, emergency response, and access to financial services.
“We live in cities where most houses are either haphazardly numbered or not numbered at all. This does more than complicate address mapping—it undermines trust in address verification, slows emergency responses, and excludes millions from financial services,” he explained.
Government’s Commitment
According to Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, the inauguration of the NAC represents a critical step in reinvigorating Nigeria’s addressing system. The administration aims to create a systematic, reliable, and consistent approach to national address mapping, driving socio-economic progress and improving service delivery nationwide.
CREDIT: Allneeds, THE NATION
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