The National Orientation Agency (NOA), in collaboration with the National Population Commission (NPC) and UNICEF, has launched a nationwide birth registration drive to secure every child’s future. The initiative, unveiled in Ibadan on September 9, aims to ensure that all children in Nigeria have access to essential services such as education and healthcare.
Dr. Kemi Afolayan, Director of the NOA’s Oyo State Directorate, who spoke on behalf of NOA’s Director General, Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, emphasized that the program targets children aged zero to five years and includes the provision of a National Identification Number (NIN) at no cost. “Birth registration is a fundamental right and the first legal acknowledgment of a child’s existence,” Afolayan stated. “It is crucial for safeguarding their rights and accessing essential services vital for their development.”
The drive is designed to improve national planning by providing vital data for public services. Accurate birth registration helps protect children from abuse and exploitation and ensures they are recognized by the state. Parents and guardians are encouraged to visit NPC registration centers with necessary documents, such as an immunization card or a parent’s birth certificate.
The registration drive will run from August to November 2024. “We urge all parents, guardians, and community leaders to participate in this crucial initiative,” Afolayan added. “By registering their children, we are not only securing their future but also contributing to our nation’s development.”
In his comments, the Director of the NPC for Oyo State, Mr. Akin Oyetunde, represented by NPC Coordinator Mr. Peter Ojelakin, highlighted the importance of accurate birth registration for national planning and development. Oyetunde noted that precise data enables the government to effectively plan for its citizens.
Oyetunde explained that NPC ad-hoc staff would use a house-to-house approach to ensure successful registration across the 33 Local Government Areas of Oyo State. He also encouraged parents to visit local NPC or NOA offices for a smooth registration process.
Comrade Sola Oladapo JP, Secretary of Oyo NUJ, emphasized the need for increased publicity to encourage parental cooperation with NPC staff in achieving the goals of the registration drive.
In separate remarks, the Iyaloja of Ibadanland, Alhaja Iswat Amiringun, and Traditional Leader Baale Moshood Olaleye underscored the importance of digital documentation for every child. They pledged to educate their communities about the significance of birth registration and the need to cooperate with government representatives.
UNICEF stressed that a child without a birth certificate remains unaccounted for and denied access to essential protective services, leading to potential rights violations throughout their life.
Stakeholders urge all parents and guardians to visit their nearest NPC registration centers to ensure their children are registered.