Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about the Preston Consults Internal Data Repository

General Questions

What is the Preston Consults Data Repository?

The Preston Consults Internal Data Repository is a comprehensive platform providing economic, trade, investment and financial data and development indicators for Nigeria, African economies, and major global economies. It offers interactive tools to explore, analyze, and export data across multiple sectors including economic, social, education, technology, and trade indicators.

Which countries are covered?

Currently, our repository covers only Nigeria. We are continuously expanding our coverage to include additional countries.

How often is the data updated?

Data is updated on a quarterly basis, with annual reviews to ensure accuracy and completeness. Critical indicators may be updated more frequently based on data availability from source database.

Data Access & Usage

Is the data free to access?

Yes, the Preston Consults Data Repository is completely free to access. However, the data is strictly available for staffs of Preston Consults and authorized external partners.

Can I download the data?

Absolutely! You can export your filtered datasets as CSV files directly from both the All Data Explorer and Trade Data Explorer. Simply apply your filters, click "Show Results," and then click the "Export Data" button.

How do I cite the data in my research?

Please cite as: Preston Consults (2026). Preston Consults Internal Data Repository. [Indicator Name]. Retrieved from https://prestonconsults.github.io/

Additionally, please cite the original data source (e.g., World Bank, IMF) as indicated in the "Source" column of each indicator.

Using the Explorers

What's the difference between All Data Explorer and Trade Data Explorer?

All Data Explorer: Contains comprehensive multi-sector data covering economic indicators (GDP, inflation, unemployment), social development, health, education, technology, and environmental metrics.

Trade Data Explorer: Specialized platform focusing exclusively on trade-related indicators including exports, imports, trade balance, and competitiveness indices.

What are Annual, Quarterly, and Monthly timeframes?

Annual: Data aggregated by calendar year (e.g., 2018, 2019, 2020)

Quarterly: Data broken down by quarters (e.g., 2018Q1, 2018Q2, 2018Q3, 2018Q4)

Monthly: Most granular data available by month (e.g., 2018-01, 2018-02)

Choose the timeframe that best suits your analysis needs. When you select a year in the filter, the system automatically expands it to show the relevant quarters or months.

How do I use the filters?
  1. Select your desired Timeframe (Annual, Quarterly, or Monthly)
  2. Choose Indicators you want to analyze (use the search box to find specific ones)
  3. Select Countries you're interested in
  4. Choose Years for your time period
  5. Click "Show Results" to display your filtered data
  6. Switch between Table View and Chart View as needed
What does "..." mean in the data table?

The "..." symbol indicates missing or unavailable data for that specific indicator, country, and time period. This can occur when data hasn't been reported by the source organization or hasn't been collected for that period.

Technical Questions

Is the repository mobile-friendly?

Yes! The repository is fully responsive and optimized for desktop, tablet, and mobile devices. On mobile, you can access filters through the hamburger menu (☰) and navigation links.

What is Dark Mode and how do I enable it?

Dark Mode is an eye-friendly theme that's easier on the eyes in low-light conditions. Click the sun/moon icon (☀️/🌙) in the top-right corner of any page to toggle between light and dark modes. Your preference is saved automatically.

Which browsers are supported?

The repository works best on modern browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. We recommend using the latest version of your browser for optimal performance.

Data Sources & Reliability

Where does the data come from?

Our data is sourced from leading international organizations including:

  • World Bank
  • International Monetary Fund (IMF)
  • International Labour Organization (ILO)
  • United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
  • Central Bank of Nigeri (CBN)
  • National Bureau of Statistics (NBS)
  • Afrexim Bank
  • African Development Bank
  • UN Comtrade
How reliable is the data?

All data comes from internationally recognized organizations that follow rigorous collection and validation methodologies. Each indicator includes source attribution so you can verify the original data. However, please note that data quality can vary by country and indicator based on local statistical capacity.

Contact & Support

I found an error in the data. How do I report it?

Please email us at info@prestonconsultsltd.com with details about the indicator, country, time period, and the nature of the error. Our team will investigate and respond promptly.

Can I request additional indicators or countries?

Yes! We welcome suggestions for expanding our repository. Please send your requests to info@prestonconsultsltd.com with information about the indicators or countries you'd like to see added.

How can I get in touch with the team?

Email: info@prestonconsultsltd.com

Phone: +234 (0) 813 607 006733

Address: Parakou Crescent, Off Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II, Abuja.

You can also visit our About Team page to learn more about our research team.

Still have questions?

Our team is here to help. Reach out to us anytime.

Contact Us