In a bid to achieve efficiency, quality output, and global best practices in the data domain, the Kaduna State Bureau of Statistics (KDBS) has partnered with the Natview Foundation for Technology Innovation (NFTI) to organize a two-day workshop focused on the development and validation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Held at BON Hotels in Kano from December 9th to 10th, 2024, the workshop aimed to bridge gaps between the data and digital spaces while promoting sustainability and strengthening interdepartmental relations.
The workshop specifically focused on the processes and procedures for three key statistical activities: the State Consultative Committee on Statistics (SCCS), Establishment Censuses/Surveys, and General Household Surveys. The goal was to create standardized, operationalized, and globally recognized frameworks for these activities to ensure long-term sustainability.
Dr. Bukar Baba Alhaji, Statistician General of Kaduna State and CEO of KDBS, opened the workshop with a call for professionalism and commitment from participants. He emphasized that the finalized SOPs would not only serve the immediate goals of the Bureau but also align with its long-term aspirations, ensuring that its operations meet international standards.
Similarly, NFTI’s Executive Director, Mr. Nuradeen Maidoki, lauded the partnership between KDBS and NFTI, highlighting the collaborative effort to articulate future progress and embed professionalism into the Bureau’s operations. He emphasized that the initiative underscores the commitment to adopting globally recognized standards for data management and operational excellence.
The first day of the workshop was dedicated to presentations, discussions, and finalization of the SOPs for Establishment Surveys and Censuses. These included procedures for conducting GDP Surveys, the Annual School Census (ASC), Health Facility Census (HFC), and other establishment studies. Participants actively engaged in refining the SOPs, ensuring that the documents reflect best practices while addressing the unique operational needs of the Bureau.
On the second day, the focus shifted to the development and finalization of the SOP for General Household Surveys. The SOP outlines a systematic approach to conducting household surveys, emphasizing consistency, reliability, and ethical practices across all stages of the process. The second day also included deliberations on the Quality Assurance Framework and Version Control measures to ensure that all statistical activities remain up-to-date and adhere to high standards. The implementation and rollout plans for the newly finalized SOPs were also talked about. The discussions ended with the Statistician General signing off on the documents.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Bukar Baba Alhaji expressed gratitude to NFTI and the staff of the Bureau for their professionalism and contributions to the development of these critical documents. He urged everyone to rally together for the successful implementation of the SOPs, noting that their rollout will begin with the forthcoming Kaduna State Agriculture Structural Survey (KASS) and GDP Survey.
This workshop marks a key milestone toward institutionalizing best practices in statistical operations within Kaduna State and NFTI remains committed to supporting KDBS in driving professionalism and innovation in data management and statistical processes, ensuring that the Bureau stands as a model for excellence in Africa.
