Data collection in Nigeria is poor for a variety of reasons. Data throws light on the state of affairs and it is essential for driving forward the quality improvement agenda in any sector. Starting with whatever data you have is better than remaining static on the pretext that there is no data or the quality of the data is suspect. However, steps must be taken to improve the quality of data collection and analysis. Move forward with the inadequate or imperfect data you have. Strive to improve your data quality and completeness over time. Nigerian governments have undertaken loads of reviews and there is no need to reinvent the wheel; such data and recommendations from these reviews should be released for execution of policies.
Prof Rotimi Jaiyesimi