In a milestone achievement, over 10 million children born in Nigeria in 2024 have been registered and issued birth certificates, according to the National Population Commission (NPC).
NPC Chairman, Alhaji Nasir Isa Kwarra, announced this during a ceremony at Asokoro General Hospital, Abuja, where the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, presented a birth certificate to the “Baby of the Year.”
“Every child born in Nigeria deserves an identity,” said Kwarra, represented by Katsina State Federal Commissioner Mr. Bala Banya. “We are committed to ensuring every child is registered and issued a birth certificate, regardless of where they are born.”
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This achievement is supported by the digitisation of the birth registration system and partnerships with primary healthcare agencies.
NPC’s Director General, Dr. Telson Osifo Ojogun, revealed plans to establish over 400 additional registration centres nationwide. “These centres will make registration easier for all families, ensuring no child is left out,” Dr. Ojogun stated.
The commission highlighted the importance of leveraging technology to ensure each registered child receives a unique identity, preventing duplication. “Birth registration is not just about statistics. It secures a child’s identity and access to essential services,” Dr. Ojogun explained.
The First Lady, represented by the Vice President’s wife, Hajiya Nana Shettima, commended the initiative, urging parents to take advantage of the free registration process. Dr. Ojogun also called for the registration of deaths, saying it was vital for maintaining an accurate population record.
This progress marks a step forward in addressing challenges linked to unregistered births in Nigeria, such as access to education and healthcare.
