A/HRC/28/64/Add.2 Census and statistics 93. Nigeria does not collect or analyse data disaggregated by ethnicity, religion or language. The Special Rapporteur encourages collection and analysis of disaggregated data, which are essential for Nigeria to fully map its population and provide a complete picture of its diversity and the socioeconomic conditions of its various groups. The advantages, in terms of strategic planning and implementation of effective policies to ensure the rights of disadvantaged minorities and other marginalized groups, outweigh the concerns. Provisions should be put into place to safeguard against discrimination, stigmatization and any misuse of sensitive information, in accordance with international standards of personal data protection and privacy. 94. At the federal, state and local levels, disaggregated data gathering, including the national census and social surveys, should be conducted and statistical analysis undertaken to provide an accurate picture of the population and key characteristics and socioeconomic status of different groups. Census questions should allow open and multiple responses to enable respondents to self-identify according to their national, ethnic, religious and linguistic affiliation, including multiple identities. 95. The scarce disaggregated data available reveal worrying issues in relation to socioeconomic rights, including high poverty and unemployment rates and regional disparities in access to education. The fulfilment of economic and social rights is not only a human rights obligation but also a fundamental step to foster social peace and stability. Measures to improve the socioeconomic conditions of the population, particularly of those most disadvantaged groups, must be carefully planned and implemented on the basis of comprehensive data. Civil society organizations 96. The Special Rapporteur was impressed by the high quality of civil society organizations. She acknowledges that their work makes a fundamental contribution to raising awareness and tackling minority rights concerns, and encourages them to continue their valuable work. She also urges the Government to enhance cooperation with civil society organizations and support them in all necessary and possible ways so that they can continue their valuable work, often in essential areas where Government action is lacking. National Human Rights Commission 97. The Special Rapporteur commends the work of the National Human Rights Commission as a key institution for the promotion and protection of the human rights. She welcomes the enhanced status given to the Commission in 2010, widening its mandate and powers. Sufficient resources should be allocated to enable the Commission and its regional offices to carry on their work and to ensure adequate and dedicated attention to the issues of minorities in each region. Its independence must be always preserved to duly fulfil its fundamental mandate. Recruitment of staff from diverse ethnic and religious communities should be ensured. 21

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