The National Orientation Agency, in partnership with National Population Commission and United Nations Children’s Fund, on Thursday announced the launch of a statewide birth registration social mobilisation drive.
Our correspondent reports that the initiative is aimed at ensuring that every child in Nigeria has access to education, healthcare, and other essential services.
It begins from August to November 2024, focusing on registering all children aged zero to five years and providing them with a National Identification Number and birth certificate without charges.
Speaking, NOA Gombe State Director Adaline Waye-Patari, said birth registration is a fundamental right of every child, adding that this initiative seeks to highlight its importance to the child, the family, the community, and the nation at large.
According to her, birth registration is the first legal acknowledgement of a child’s existence and is essential for safeguarding their rights and privileges for now and in the future.
She urged parents and guardians to visit the nearest registration centre of the NPC to register their children, stressing that the process is simple and free, requiring only supporting documents such as an immunisation card or an existing birth certificate of a parent or guardian.
Waye-Patari said, “We are calling on all parents, guardians, and community leaders to take part in this crucial initiative.
“Let’s work together to give every child in Nigeria the best start in life. By registering their birth, we are not only securing their future, but also contributing to the development of our nation.”
Also speaking, Gombe NPC Director Jude Maigari, called for collaborative efforts of all stakeholders
Maigari added, “It is the key to unlocking access to basic services such as education and healthcare, which are crucial for a child’s development and future. Moreover, accurate birth registration is vital for national planning and development, as it provides the government with essential data to plan for education, healthcare, and other public services. By registering a child’s birth, families ensure that their children are recognised by the state, which is the first step in protecting them from abuse, exploitation, and statelessness.”
