In a significant step towards ensuring the welfare of Nigerian children, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has partnered with the National Population Commission (NPC) and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) to launch a comprehensive digital birth registration campaign for children aged zero to five in Plateau State. The initiative, unveiled at a press conference held in the Federal Secretariat Complex, Jos, is part of the “Birth Registration Social Mobilization Campaign” aimed at reaching every child across the state’s 17 local government areas.
Plateau State Director of NOA, Mrs. Kaneng Tabitha Pam-Hworo, emphasized the importance of this door-to-door campaign, which will be free and widely accessible. “We want everybody, especially parents, to know that birth registration should be taken seriously,” she said, highlighting the campaign’s critical role in ensuring children have documented identities from birth, which is essential for accessing education, healthcare, and social protection.
The Director General of the NPC, Ojogun Tellson Osifo, represented by Director of Special Duties Mr. David Akoji, noted that birth registration is the first legal acknowledgment of a child’s existence, helping safeguard their rights. He encouraged parents to visit the nearest NPC centers, where children will be registered and receive a National Identification Number (NIN). This step is integral to providing essential services from the earliest stages of life, he explained, adding, “UNICEF’s intervention reflects a commitment to ensuring our data meets global standards.”
NOA’s Director General, Dr. Lanre Issa-Onilu, stressed the long-term benefits of accurate birth registration for national planning and development. “This drive aims to ensure that every child in Nigeria has access to essential services like education, healthcare, and social protection. Birth registration is a fundamental right of every child, and this initiative highlights its importance to the child, family, community, and nation.”
Dr. Issa-Onilu urged parents to take advantage of the initiative, which will run through November 2024, to register children aged 0-5 and secure their futures. “Every child will receive a NIN upon face capturing and birth registration. We urge all parents, guardians, and community leaders to participate in this crucial exercise. Let’s work together to give every child in Nigeria the best start in life,” he added.
With support from NOA, NPC, and UNICEF, this campaign represents a significant stride towards comprehensive child welfare and a more data-informed approach to national development in Nigeria.
