The National Orientation Agency (NOA), in collaboration with the National Population Commission (NPC) and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), has launched a mobilisation drive to encourage nationwide birth registration for children aged 0–5 years. The initiative aims to ensure that every child in Nigeria has access to essential services such as education and healthcare.
During the stakeholders’ gathering held in Ibadan on Monday, the Oyo State Director of NOA, Dr Olukemi Afolayan, read the address of the agency’s Director General. Dr Afolayan emphasised that the drive focuses on registering all children in the target age group and providing them with a National Identification Number (NIN) free of charge. She stated, “Birth registration is a fundamental right of every child.”
The Director General noted that birth registration plays a crucial role in safeguarding the rights and privileges of children. She explained, “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. 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.”
In addition to its benefits for children and families, she emphasised the importance of birth registration for national development, saying, “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, she noted, “families ensure that their children are recognised by the state, which is the first step in protecting them from abuse, exploitation, and statelessness.”
Parents and guardians were urged to visit the nearest NPC registration centres to complete the simple and free registration process. The Director General pointed out, “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.”
“During this drive, every child aged 0-5 years will receive a NIN upon face capturing and birth registration.” She stressed the importance of community participation, stating, “We are calling on all parents, guardians, and community leaders to take part in this crucial initiative.”
Dr. Afolayan also highlighted the broader impact of the initiative, urging, “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.”
The birth registration drive will run from August to November 2024, with Dr Afolayan reminding the public, “Don’t miss this opportunity to ensure that every child in your community, ward, and LGA is registered and has access to vital services.”
The Director General of NOA added that the agency remains committed to raising awareness on critical national issues, stating, “The National Orientation Agency (NOA) is responsible for enlightening the public on government policies, programmes, and activities and is committed to raising awareness on critical national issues and mobilising the public to take action.”
Additionally, she recognised the vital role of UNICEF in championing children’s rights, noting, “UNICEF is a global leader in advocating for the rights and well-being of every child, working in over 190 countries and territories to reach the most vulnerable and excluded children.”
ALSO READ THESE TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNEÂ
and then