Nigeria

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UNITED NATIONS ECONOMIC COMMISSION FOR EUROPE

CONFERENCE OF EUROPEAN STATISTICIANS

Workshop on Ethics in Modern Statistical Organisations

26-28 March 2024, Geneva, Switzerland

15 March 2024

An Assessment of Ethics and Proactive Communication Practices

in The Nigerian Statistical System

Kumafan S. Dzaan (Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigeria)

[email protected]

Abstract

Nigeria has witnessed increasing demand for diverse, refined, and timely data in ever-increasing quantities,

which is characteristic of an ever-changing society. As the data environment becomes increasingly

competitive, it is crucial to maintain public trust, and this requires statistical offices to proactively adopt and

communicate ethical values and practices to avoid loss of trust in them.

The code of practice for official statistics in Nigeria, as published by the National Bureau of Statistics, states

that “the official statistics generated by the National Bureau of Statistics and the other statistics-producing

members of the National Statistical System NSS must be presented clearly and comprehensively and

disseminated appropriately, thereby enabling equitable access by all users”, and “The National Bureau of

Statistics and other producers of statistics in the National Statistical System engage actively with the users of

statistics to promote trust and maximize public values”.

As Nigeria’s statistical system continues to develop and evolve with current trends, there is the need to assess

ethical practices in the dissemination and communication of official statistics, challenges being faced, as well

as available opportunities.

This study aims: examine ways of communicating ethical values within statistics offices, along with their

effectiveness; discuss unique challenges associated with implementing the laid down code in disseminating

and communicating official statistics; assess the use of media for proactive communication practices in

Nigeria’s statistical system; as well as determine the effect of ethics and proactive communication in building

public trust. The major objective is to propose ways to enhance ethical and proactive communication of

official statistics in Nigeria. These recommendations would address the perceived needs of Nigeria’s national

and sub-national statistics offices, the role of various stakeholders in the statistical system, as well as their

interrelationships.

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An Assessment of Ethics and Proactive Communication Practices in

The Nigerian Statistical System

Kumafan S. Dzaan (Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigeria)

[email protected]

Paper

1.0 Introduction

The Nigerian Statistical System (NSS) plays a crucial role in providing accurate and reliable data for decision-

making, policy formulation, and development planning. However, the integrity of statistical data hinges not

only on the technical proficiency of statisticians but also on ethical conduct and effective communication

practices. This paper assesses the ethical standards and proactive communication strategies within the

Nigerian Statistical System NSS, examining their impact on data credibility, public trust, and policy

effectiveness.

1.1 Importance of Ethics and Proactive Communication in Statistical Systems

In the context of this paper, ethics in statistical practice refers to a set of values used by statisticians to guide

their professional activities and to recognize their obligations to all stakeholders (Chuwa, 2015). This means

adherence to moral values, professional integrity, and responsibility in ensuring that accurate, objective, and

reliable statistical information is produced and disseminated through the statistical system.

Ethics in statistical practice necessarily means that statisticians should abide by principles of integrity and

objectivity, avoiding biases or conflicts of interest. This entails that statisticians must ensure confidentiality

of individual data and protect the privacy rights of respondents; be transparency about methods, assumptions,

limitations, collection methods, analysis, and interpretation; ensure accuracy and reliability of findings, using

appropriate statistical methods and techniques to minimize errors and uncertainties; promote fairness and

equity, avoiding discrimination or bias in data collection and reporting; and adhere to professional standards

and norms, maintaining competence, honesty, and accountability in their interactions with colleagues, clients,

and the public.

Ethics in statistical practice is essential for upholding the credibility and relevance of statistical data, which

are fundamental for informed decision-making and societal progress. Adhering to ethical principles ensures

that statistical information serves the public interest and contributes to the advancement of knowledge and

understanding in various fields.

Proactive communication in official statistics involves reaching out to users, making statistics accessible, and

promoting their use for informed decision-making using different communication channels (Nymand-

Andersen, 2017; UNECE, 2021). This facilitates effective dissemination and stakeholder engagement,

building public trust by enhancing accessibility and understanding of statistical data by promoting openness,

engagement, and trust between statistical agencies and their stakeholders. By adopting proactive

communication strategies, statistical agencies can ensure that their data is widely accessible, easily

understood, and effectively utilized for decision-making, research, and public discourse (Gelman, 2018).

2.0 An Overview of The Nigerian Statistical System

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) is Nigeria’s central statistical agency that coordinates and oversees

official statistics in Nigeria. Various government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) collaborate

with the NBS to collect and maintain statistical data related to their specific areas of responsibility for internal

use and for sharing with the NBS. State governments in Nigeria have their State Statistical Bureaus that also

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collaborate with the NBS and other relevant state agencies to ensure consistency and standardization in

statistical practices across the country.

Fig. 1.0: Nigerian Statistical System

In addition to government agencies, specialized research institutes, educational institutions, private sector

organizations, and NGOs often generate data on specific topics or sectors to advocate for policy change, raise

awareness, and support development initiatives. This network of institutions and agencies involved in data

production is coordinated by the National Bureau of Statistics per the Statistics Act (2007).

2.1 Legal and Regulatory Frameworks Governing Statistical Activities in Nigeria

Nigeria’s legal and regulatory frameworks serve to establish and assign roles and responsibilities to relevant

institutions, ensure the confidentiality and protection of statistical data, and promote the integrity and

transparency of statistical processes. We shall consider some key legal and regulatory structures in place for

governing statistical activities in Nigeria:

The Statistics Act (2007) is the umbrella legislation governing statistical activities in Nigeria. It establishes

the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) as a central statistical authority responsible for coordinating statistical

activities nationwide and provides for the establishment of Sub-national Statistical Offices to coordinate

statistical activities at the state level. The Freedom of Information Act (2011) grants individuals the right to

access information held by public institutions, thereby promoting transparency and accountability by

empowering individuals to request statistical information held by government agencies, subject to certain

exemptions and limitations.

The National Code of Health Research Ethics (2007) and the Data Protection Regulation (2019) provide

guidelines for protection of personal and health data collected and processed by all entities in Nigeria. These

regulations ensure that statistical data containing personal information is handled per data protection

principles, including consent, purpose limitation, and data security.

The Central Bank of Nigeria Act (2007), the National Health Act (2014), the National Data Strategy (2022),

and other similar sectoral laws and regulations govern statistical activities regarding sector-specific data.

Nigeria is also bound by international agreements and commitments like the African Charter on Statistics

and United Nations Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics, which provide the required guidelines and

standards.

2.2 Challenges and Opportunities in the Nigeria’s Statistical System Landscape

We shall examine the challenges and opportunities in the NSS and develop an understanding of how to

enhance the capacity and improve the performance of the NSS.

2.3.1 Challenges

Data Quality and Reliability are affected by insufficient human and institutional capacity in terms of skilled

statisticians, analysts, and technical expertise. Similarly, data accessibility and timely dissemination are

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impaired by poorly developed dissemination channels, lack of awareness among data users, and bureaucratic

bottlenecks. There are inefficiencies and inconsistencies due to duplication of efforts among different

government agencies and departments. Lastly, technological infrastructure and inadequate IT systems for data

production are outdated due to insufficient investment in modernizing.

2.3.2 Opportunities

Modern technological advancements present opportunities for modernizing data activities and harmonizing

data collection efforts within the NSS, just as capacity-building programs for data practitioners can strengthen

the human capital within the NSS. Another opportunity is collaboration with the private sector, civil society

organizations, and academia, which can enhance the capacity and availability of resources to the NSS.

Similarly, increasing awareness of the importance of data will result in greater demand for reliable and timely

statistics. Finally, regional and international cooperation initiatives can improve knowledge sharing, capacity

building, and best practices.

Addressing these challenges and exploiting these opportunities requires concerted efforts from the

government as well as all stakeholders and will enable the NSS to strengthen its capacity to produce high-

quality data.

3.0 Ethical Standards in The Nigerian Statistical System

A product of the Statistics Act (2007), the Code of Practice for Official Statistics (2016) maintains a

coordinated statistical system to serve the government and society in statistical processes, institutional

environment, and statistical output. It conforms to United Nations Fundamental Principles of Official

Statistics as well as the principles of of integrity, honesty, objectivity, and impartiality, which are core values

of civil service. It defines these concepts as “putting the public interest above organizational, political, or

personal interests”, “being truthful and open about the statistics and their interpretation”, “using scientific

methods to collect statistics and basing statistical advice on rigorous analysis of the evidence”, and “acting

solely according to the merits of the statistical evidence, serving equally well all aspects of the public interest”,

respectively.

Furthermore, national professional bodies such as the Nigerian Statistical Association (NSA) and

international professional bodies such as the International Statistical Institute (ISI) continue to provide

standards and guidelines for ethical conduct in statistical practice, while the Data Protection Regulation

(2019) provides guidelines for handling and safeguarding personal data per data protection principles.

3.1 Ethical Challenges and Dilemmas in the NSS

Ethical challenges and dilemmas encountered by statisticians in Nigeria often arise from the need to balance

adherence to professional standards and upholding the integrity of statistical data. According to Gelman

(2018), dilemmas arising when analysing and communicating uncertainty and variation are practical realities

that statisticians face. Interactions among statisticians in the NSS have revealed ethical challenges and

dilemmas such as manipulating data to achieve desired outcomes or meet predetermined targets; professional

obligations conflicting with personal interests or external pressures; deciding whether to use, discard, or report

questionable data; unwillingness or inability to obtain informed consent from vulnerable populations or

minors; selectively reporting or publishing research findings that support predetermined or preferred

conclusions while disregarding contradictory evidence.

A multifaceted approach is required to address these ethical challenges and dilemmas – promoting ethical

awareness, providing training and support for statisticians, establishing clear guidelines and standards for

ethical conduct, and fostering a culture of ethics within the statistical profession.

3.2 Scenarios Illustrating Ethical Considerations in Various Stages of the Statistical Process

We shall consider possible scenarios illustrating ethical considerations in various stages of the statistical

process within the Nigerian context:

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Scenario 1 – Data Collection: During data collection on healthcare access in rural communities, enumerators

encounter resistance from some community members who doubt the confidentiality of their health

information. Ethically, statisticians must ensure that data collection procedures respect the rights and privacy

of survey respondents by obtaining informed consent, guaranteeing confidentiality, and honestly addressing

concerns about data security to build trust and encourage participation in surveys.

Scenario 2 – Data Analysis: During data analysis of a study on household income inequality, the researcher

discovers inconsistencies and outliers in the income distribution. Ethically they should adhere to rigorous

statistical methods, document analytical procedures, and disclose limitations to ensure the accuracy and

credibility of research findings (ASA, 2018).

Scenario 3 – Data Interpretation: Media outlets misinterpret the findings in a report on poverty trends based

on household survey data, leading to sensationalized headlines that inaccurately portray poverty rates and

trends, distort public perception of poverty, and cause confusion and misinformation. Ethically the statistics

office should proactively and ethically communicate by providing context, explaining uncertainties, and

avoiding sensationalism or exaggeration when interpreting statistical findings.

Scenario 4 – Data Dissemination: A portal to disseminate statistical information lacks accessibility features,

such that people living with disabilities are unable to access and navigate the data, thereby limiting the

inclusivity and usability of the portal. Ethically, the statistics office should consider accessibility standards

and guidelines, provide alternative formats or accommodations, and solicit feedback from users to improve

the usability and effectiveness of data dissemination platforms.

4.0 Overview of Communication Practices and Strategies in the NSS

The NSO produces a wide range of official publications, reports, and analytical studies that provide

comprehensive information on key economic, social, and demographic indicators. In addition, it maintains

data portals and websites that serve as central repositories for statistical information, issues press releases,

and media briefings to announce the release of new statistical data that highlight key findings and provide

context. It also leverages social media platforms to engage with stakeholders and disseminate statistical

information.

Furthermore, the NSS uses data visualization techniques and infographics to present statistical information in

a visually appealing and easy-to-understand format. It organizes capacity-building forums to enhance the

skills and knowledge of data stakeholders, conducts stakeholder engagement activities to solicit feedback and

build collaboration, and collaborates with government agencies, academic institutions, research

organizations, civil society groups, and international partners to strengthen data production efforts.

4.1 Challenges and Opportunities for Ethical Conduct and Proactive Communication in the NSS

Identifying barriers to ethical conduct and proactive communication within the NSS is essential for addressing

challenges and improving practices. Here are some common instances:

Lack of awareness and training on ethical principles or the importance of proactive communication results in

unintentional unethical conduct or failure to prioritize proactive communication efforts. Limited financial

resources, inadequate staffing, and outdated technology infrastructure can impede efforts to promote ethical

conduct and proactive communication within the NSS. Burdensome bureaucratic processes and institutional

inertia can hinder the implementation of ethical guidelines and proactive communication strategies within the

NSS, and a lack of incentives causes individuals to prioritize other tasks or objectives that are perceived as

more immediately beneficial to their career advancement or organizational goals.

Furthermore, political interference and pressure from government officials may compromise the

independence and integrity of statistical agencies within the NSS, thereby undermining the ethical conduct

and credibility of statistical data. Cultural norms and organizational culture in statistical agencies can

influence ethical conduct and communication practices, such as prioritizing compliance over ethical decision-

making. Finally, ambiguous or conflicting legal frameworks governing statistical activities may create

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barriers to ethical conduct and proactive communication within the NSS by creating legal uncertainties that

hinder proactive communication efforts.

4.2 Multifaceted Approach for Addressing the Barriers

These barriers could be addressed by providing comprehensive training and awareness programs on ethical

principles and proactive communication. It is also critical to allocate sufficient resources for capacity

building, infrastructure development, and communication initiatives, streamlining bureaucratic processes and

promoting an ethical culture within the NSS. Establishing clear incentives and recognition mechanisms for

ethical behaviour and effective communication would create an enabling environment for ethics, just as

safeguarding the independence of statistical agencies from political interference would ensure adherence to

professional standards and best practices. Finally, reviewing and updating legal and regulatory frameworks

to support ethical conduct and proactive communication within the NSS will reposition the NSS for ethical

conduct and proactive communication.

4.3 Lessons from Best Practices in Statistical Systems

Comparing the Nigerian Statistical System (NSS) with international best practices and drawing lessons from

other statistical systems can provide valuable insights and guidance for addressing challenges, improving

practices, and enhancing the effectiveness of the NSS. Here are some key comparisons and lessons learned:

Autonomy: International statistical systems often prioritize the independence and autonomy of statistical

agencies to ensure the credibility, objectivity, and impartiality of statistical data. Strengthening the legal and

institutional framework for Nigeria’s NSS will enhance its independence from political interference and

ensure adherence to international standards of statistical integrity and professionalism.

Transparency: Leading statistical systems prioritize transparency and accountability in data collection,

analysis, and dissemination processes, fostering public trust and confidence in official statistics. Promoting

greater transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s NSS through proactive communication, disclosure

of methodologies, and engagement with stakeholders will enhance the credibility and reliability of statistical

information.

Professionalism: International best practices emphasize the importance of ethical conduct, professionalism,

and adherence to professional standards and codes of ethics in statistical practice. Implementing

comprehensive ethics training programs, establishing clear guidelines and standards for ethical conduct, and

fostering a culture of integrity and professionalism within Nigeria’s NSS will uphold the highest standards of

ethical conduct and professionalism.

Reliability: Leading statistical systems prioritize data quality and reliability, employing rigorous

methodologies, quality assurance processes, and validation procedures to ensure the accuracy and consistency

of statistical data. Investing in capacity building, modernizing data collection methods, and enhancing quality

control mechanisms within Nigeria’s NSS will improve data quality and reliability, thereby enhancing the

credibility and utility of statistical information.

Accessibility: Successful statistical systems actively engage with users, solicit feedback, and prioritize the

accessibility and usability of statistical information to meet the diverse needs of stakeholders. Adopting

innovative communication strategies, leveraging technology platforms, and engaging with diverse user

groups will enhance the accessibility, understanding, and utilization of statistical data among policymakers,

researchers, and the general public.

Benchmarking: Leading statistical systems actively participate in international collaboration, benchmarking,

and peer review initiatives to exchange best practices, share experiences, and learn from global counterparts.

Engaging with international organizations, participating in peer review mechanisms, and benchmarking

against international standards will identify areas for improvement, adopt best practices, and enhance the

performance of Nigeria’s NSS.

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5.0 Impact of Ethics and Communication on Data Credibility and Utilization

The relationship between ethical conduct, effective communication, and data utilization for decision-making

and policy formulation is multifaceted and interdependent. We examine how these elements are

interconnected thus:

Ethical conduct within the statistical process involves upholding principles such as honesty, integrity,

objectivity, and respect for confidentiality, thus ensuring that statistical data is collected, analysed, and

disseminated in a manner that is transparent, accurate, and reliable. This instills trust and confidence in

statistical data, increasing its credibility and reliability. Decision-makers and policymakers are more likely to

utilize statistical information that is perceived as ethically produced and free from bias or manipulation.

Effective communication involves conveying statistical information in a clear, concise, and accessible manner

to diverse stakeholders using appropriate communication channels, formats, and strategies to reach and

engage with target audiences effectively. This enhances accessibility and understanding of statistical

information, making it more likely to be utilized for decision-making and policy formulation. When data is

communicated clearly and comprehensively, decision-makers can make informed choices based on evidence

rather than intuition or incomplete information.

Utilization of statistical information refers to the integration of data into decision-making processes, policy

formulation, program planning, and evaluation. Statistical data informs strategies, identifies trends, assesses

outcomes, and guides resource allocation to address societal challenges effectively. Ethical conduct and

effective communication facilitate the utilization of statistical information by enhancing its credibility,

accessibility, and relevance because decision-makers are more likely to rely on data that is produced ethically,

communicated effectively, and perceived as trustworthy.

There is a feedback loop between ethical conduct, effective communication, and the utilization of statistical

information. Ethical conduct and effective communication enhance the utilization of statistical information

by building trust, increasing accessibility, and improving understanding. In turn, the utilization of statistical

information reinforces the importance of ethical conduct and effective communication in the statistical

process.

6.0 Recommendations for Enhancing Ethics and Proactive Communication

6.1 Policy Recommendations for Strengthening Ethical Standards and Enforcement Mechanisms

Within the NSS

To strengthen ethical standards and enforcement mechanisms within the Nigerian Statistical System (NSS),

we recommend the development of comprehensive ethical guidelines that outline principles, standards, and

best practices for ethical conduct in all aspects of statistical activities per international standards, tailored to

the specific context of the NSS. We also recommend implementing regular training and awareness programs

on ethical principles and guidelines for all personnel involved in statistical activities within the NSS on data

confidentiality, integrity, objectivity, and conflicts of interest, emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct

in upholding the credibility and integrity of statistical data. It is also critical to establish robust institutional

mechanisms for oversight and enforcement of ethical standards within the NSS and to promote transparency

in statistical processes by ensuring that methodologies, data sources, and assumptions are documented and

accessible to stakeholders.

It is imperative to strengthen confidentiality and data protection of individual data in the NSS, with senior

management leading by example of ethical behaviour and accountability. We also recommend strengthening

collaboration with relevant stakeholders to share best practices and address ethical challenges collectively

and conducting regular evaluations and reviews of ethical practices within the NSS to identify areas for

improvement and ensure continuous adherence to ethical standards.

By implementing these policy recommendations, the Nigerian Statistical System can strengthen ethical

standards and enforcement mechanisms and foster public confidence in official statistics. This will ultimately

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support evidence-based decision-making that empowers the government to deliver good governance and

sustainable development in Nigeria.

6.2 Strategies for improving communication channels and engagement with stakeholders

Improving communication channels and engagement with stakeholders, including government agencies, civil

society organizations, and the media, is essential for enhancing the accessibility, relevance, and impact of

statistical information.

There is a need to conduct a stakeholder mapping and analysis to identify key stakeholders relevant to the

NSS and analyze their interests and communication preferences to tailor engagement strategies accordingly.

This should be backed by organizing regular stakeholder consultations, focus group discussions, and feedback

sessions to solicit input and address concerns regarding ethical statistical and communication practices in the

NSS. The next step is to establish dedicated communication channels for these engagements with different

stakeholder groups periodically to stay up-to-date with changes in society, with frequent evaluation of the

effectiveness of these communication channels to ensure consistency.

Establishing data literacy units across statistical agencies to enhance understanding and interpretation of data

is another important strategy that will ensure continuous capacity-building in the NSS using customized

communication materials tailored to the specific needs of different stakeholder groups. To entrench ethical

and proactive communication in the NSS, it is important to provide journalists with timely access to statistical

data, expert commentary, and spokespersons for interviews and inquiries. This is closely related with the need

to build partnerships and collaborations with government agencies, academic institutions, civil society

organizations, and media outlets to amplify the reach and impact of communication efforts.

It is also important to develop communication plans for crises when rapid response mechanisms are needed

to address misinformation and data inaccuracies to maintain trust and credibility. Finally, it is imperative to

ensure that communication strategies and materials are culturally sensitive and accessible to diverse linguistic

and cultural demographics.

6.3 A Call for Investment in Capacity Building on Ethical Behaviour and Proactive

Communication

Calls for investment in capacity building to promote a culture of ethical behaviour and proactive

communication among statisticians are essential for upholding professional standards and fostering trust in

statistical information. Investing in training and capacity building is crucial because it raises awareness among

statisticians about ethical principles, proactive communication skills, critical thinking for dealing with

dilemmas, analytical skills, and generally staying abreast with best practices.

It also fosters a culture of continuous learning and professional development, adaptability to evolving needs

and challenges, and maintaining public trust in official statistics. This is essential for promoting a culture of

ethical behaviour and proactive communication among statisticians.

7.0 Conclusion

We conclude with a call to action for policymakers, statisticians, and stakeholders to prioritize ethics and

proactive communication as fundamental pillars of the Nigerian Statistical System NSS. As we navigate the

complexities of the modern world, where data-driven decision making is paramount, we must prioritize ethics

and communication as fundamental pillars of the Nigerian Statistical System (NSS). To policymakers,

statisticians, and stakeholders alike, we issue this urgent call to action:

7.1 Policymakers need to recognize the critical importance of ethical conduct and effective

communication in production, dissemination, and utilization of statistical information. They also need to

allocate adequate resources and support to strengthen ethical standards, capacity building, and communication

efforts within the NSS. Lastly, they should enact policies and legislation that safeguard the independence,

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integrity, and credibility of statistical agencies, ensuring they operate with transparency, accountability, and

professionalism.

7.2 Statisticians should embrace a culture of ethics, integrity, and professionalism in all aspects of

statistical practice, adhering to ethical guidelines, principles, and best practices. They also need to invest in

continuous learning, training, and skill development to enhance ethical awareness, communication skills, and

data literacy among statisticians. Lastly, they should champion transparency, openness, and accountability in

statistical activities, promoting public trust and confidence in official statistics through ethical conduct and

transparent communication.

7.3 Stakeholders need to advocate for the prioritization of ethics and proactive communication as core

principles of the NSS, emphasizing the importance of ethical behavior and effective communication in

shaping public policy and decision-making. They also need to continually engage with statistical agencies,

policymakers, and CSOs to promote dialogue, collaboration, and mutual understanding on ethical issues, data

quality, and communication strategies. Lastly, they should hold statistical agencies and policymakers

accountable for upholding ethical standards, ensuring transparency, and fostering public engagement and

participation in statistical processes.

Collective commitment is required to build a Nigerian Statistical System that upholds the highest ethical

standards, and that communicates statistical information proactively, effectively, transparently, and

inclusively. By prioritizing ethics and communication as fundamental pillars of the NSS, we can ensure the

credibility and impact of statistical data in supporting evidence-based decision making, promoting sustainable

development, and advancing the well-being of all Nigerians.

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References

ASA (2018). Ethical Guidelines for Statistical Practice. Retrieved March 1, 2024 from

https://www.amstat.org/asa/files/pdfs/EthicalGuidelines.pdf.

Gelman, A. (2018). Ethics in Statistical Practice and Communication: Five Recommendations. Significance,

Volume 15, Issue 5, October 2018, Pages 40–43. (URL: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1740-

9713.2017.01193.x)

Gelman, A. (2018). Ethics in Statistical Practice and Communication: Eight Recommendations. Retrieved

March 1, 2024 from

http://www.stat.columbia.edu/~gelman/research/unpublished/ethics20_revised_2.pdf

Chuwa, A. (2015). Ethics in Statistical Practice. Retrieved March 1, 2024 from

https://www.nbs.go.tz/nbs/takwimu/references/Ethical_in_Statistics.pdf

Nymand-Andersen, P. (2017). Preparing a statistics communication strategy. Workshop on Statistical Data

Dissemination and Communication 28-30 June 2017, Geneva, Switzerland.

UNECE, (2021). Strategic Communications Framework for Statistical Institutions. February 25, 2024 (URL:

https://unece.org/sites/default/files/2021-06/ECECESSTAT20211.pdf)

Annex I: Laws and Regulations Relating to Statistical Ethics in Nigeria

a) Statistics Act (2007), available at https://www.nigerianstat.gov.ng/resource/NBS_ACT_2007.pdf

b) Freedom of Information Act (2011), available at https://archive.gazettes.africa/archive/ng/2011/ng-

government-gazette-dated-2011-05-30-no-36.pdf

c) National Code of Health Research Ethics (2007), available at

https://www.nhrec.net/nhrec/NCHRE_July%2007.pdf

d) Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (2019), available at https://nitda.gov.ng/wp-

content/uploads/2020/11/NigeriaDataProtectionRegulation11.pdf

e) Central Bank of Nigeria Act (2007), available at

https://www.cbn.gov.ng/OUT/CIRCULARS/CSD/2007/CBN%20ACT%202007.PDF

f) National Health Act (2014), available at https://scorecard.prb.org/wp-

content/uploads/2019/06/Nigeria-National-Health-Act-2014.pdf

g) National Data Strategy (2022), available at https://nitda.gov.ng/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Final-

Draft-National-Data-Strategy.pdf

h) Code of Practice for Official Statistics (2016), available at

https://www.nigerianstat.gov.ng/pdfuploads/SUFEGOR_TOR035_Code%20of%20Practice%20.pd

f

i) African Charter on Statistics, available at https://au.int/sites/default/files/treaties/36412-treaty-

african_charter_on_satistics_eng.pdf

An Assessment of Ethics and Proactive Communication Practices in

The Nigerian Statistical System

Kumafan Dzaan

Central Bank of Nigeria & Benue State Bureau of Statistics

UNECE Workshop on Ethics in Modern Statistical Organisations

Geneva, Switzerland, 26-28 March 2024

1

01 Introduction and

Context

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Background

▪ Nigeria’s National Statistical System (NSS) is designed to provide

reliable data for all stakeholders.

▪ However, the technical proficiency of statisticians is not sufficient

to guarantee the integrity of statistical data…

▪ Ethical conduct and proactive communication practices must be

imbibed.

▪ We shall assess ethical standards and proactive communication

practices within the NSS and make recommendations.

3

Ethics and Proactive Communication in NSS

The Code of Practice for Official Statistics in Nigeria:

“The official statistics generated by the National Bureau of Statistics and the other statistics-producing members of the National Statistical System

must be presented clearly and comprehensively and disseminated appropriately, thereby enabling equitable access by all users”

and

“The National Bureau of Statistics and other producers of statistics in the National Statistical System engage actively with the users of statistics to

promote trust and maximize public values”

4

Structure of Nigeria’s Statistical System

5

Legal and Regulatory Frameworks

Statistics Act

National Code of Health Research Ethics

Central Bank of Nigeria Act

2007

Freedom of Information Act

2011

National Health Act

2014

Code of Practice for Official Statistics

2016

Nigeria Data Protection Regulation

2019

National Data Strategy (Currently being revised)

2022

6

02

Challenges and

Opportunities in NSS

7

8

Challenges

Capacity

Bottlenecks

Coordination

Modernization

A

B

C

D

Data Quality and Reliability are affected by insufficient human

and institutional capacity in Statistics Offices (esp. sub-national)

Suboptimal dissemination channels and bureaucratic

bottlenecks affect data accessibility and timeliness

Outdated technological infrastructure and IT systems due to

insufficient investment in modernization

Inefficiencies and inconsistencies due to duplication of

efforts among different agencies and departments

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Opportunities Leveraging technological advancements to modernize data

activities and harmonize data collection Technology

Capacity-building programs for data practitioners Capacity

Regional and international cooperation initiatives can enhance

capacity building and best practices Cooperation

Awareness of the importance of data is increasingAwareness

Collaboration with private sector, CSOs, and academia to

harness resources Collaboration

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Recommendations

and Conclusion

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1 4

2 5

Establish robust Ethics Offices for enforcement of

ethical standards

Establish Data Literacy Units for education on

ethical standards

Strengthen collaboration to

share best practices and

address ethical challenges

collectively

Conduct regular system-wide evaluations and reviews of

ethical practices in the NSS

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Develop comprehensive

ethical guidelines to guide

all aspects of statistical

activities

Provide statistical reports to

journalists, let

spokespersons grant

interviews for proper context

Policy Recommendations

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Further Recommendations

Policymakers

Statisticians

Stakeholders

1

2

3

Recognize the importance of ethical conduct and proactive

communication, allocate adequate resources to strengthen ethical

standards, safeguard the independence of statistical agencies

Embrace a culture of ethics and professionalism, invest in

continuous capacity development, champion transparency to

promoting public trust and confidence

Advocate for the prioritization of ethics and proactive communication

as core principles of the NSS, continually promote dialogue and

mutual understanding on ethical issues, hold statistical agencies and

policymakers accountable for upholding ethical standards

Conclusion

▪ Nigeria’s Statistical System has the potential and opportunities to abide by the highest standards of ethical practices and proactive communication.

▪ It is time for Nigeria to harness these opportunities to upgrade its statistical system to a commendable status in Africa and the world.

▪ Collective commitment by policy makers, statisticians and all stakeholders is required to achieve this in the fastest possible time.

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References ASA (2018). Ethical Guidelines for Statistical Practice. Retrieved March 1, 2024 from

https://www.amstat.org/asa/files/pdfs/EthicalGuidelines.pdf.

Gelman, A. (2018). Ethics in Statistical Practice and Communication: Five Recommendations. Significance, Volume 15, Issue 5, October 2018, Pages 40–43. (URL:

https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1740-9713.2017.01193.x)

Gelman, A. (2018). Ethics in Statistical Practice and Communication: Eight Recommendations. Retrieved March 1, 2024 from http://www.stat.columbia.edu/~gelman/research/unpublished/ethics20_revised_2.pdf

Chuwa, A. (2015). Ethics in Statistical Practice. Retrieved March 1, 2024 from https://www.nbs.go.tz/nbs/takwimu/references/Ethical_in_Statistics.pdf

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