FG to reset NAC to bolster service delivery
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Federal Government has taken crucial actions to reset the National Addressing Council in a bid to address challenges associated with the addressing system in Nigeria.
It was gathered that a new NAC and a technical committee is to be inaugurated next year to drive the country’s agenda on planning, economic, and financial inclusion, as well as ensuring an effective national addressing system.
The Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media and Communications (Office of The Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha disclosed in a statement made available for Dailyeconomy on Thursday, that the decision was taken during a pre-meeting of the council chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettim at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday.
According to Nkwocha Shettima while derscoring the need for the immediate standardisation of Nigeria’s addressing system, described the move as essential for improving service delivery, enhancing urban planning, and driving economic growth.
Addressing stakeholders at the meeting, the VP noted that standardising Nigeria’s addressing system is long overdue, adding that it will end decades of infrastructural deficits and create a system.
Shettima said, “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.”
The VP decried the consequences of the current disorganised system, noting its impact on governance, logistics, and the financial inclusion of many Nigerians.
“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 elucidated.
However, Shettima lauded the foundational work done seven years ago when the National Addressing System initiative was introduced, noting that there is a need to move beyond frameworks to actionable implementation.
“This was not a vision to be left in dusty drawers or delayed indefinitely. Addressing is fundamental to our aspirations of becoming a 21st-century economy.
“A standardised addressing system will enhance logistics, strengthen e-commerce, and foster trust in financial services. It will also enable accurate emergency response and disaster management, ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind.
“The challenge before us is not about delegating responsibilities but about creating a synergy that cuts across federal, state, and local governments. Political will and technical expertise must work hand in hand to make this initiative a success,” he added.
