Nigeria’s First Lady to Accelerate Birth Registration Through the Renewed Hope Initiative

Abuja, Nigeria –29th August 2024 – Today marks a significant step forward in the collective effort to ensure that every child in Nigeria is recognized and registered at birth. The official launch of the Renewed Hope Initiative Project to accelerate birth registration at scale led by the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, aims to scale-up birth registration services across the country, with strong support from the United Nations and UNICEF to the efforts of the Government of Nigeria. 

"Our children, the treasure of our nation, must have their rights and privileges guaranteed from the very beginning," stated Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. She further emphasized, "A well-functioning civil registration and vital statistics system is essential to safeguarding these rights and ensuring that no violation goes unnoticed." 

Cristian Munduate, UNICEF's Representative in Nigeria, also spoke at the launch and expressed gratitude for the government's commitment to extending birth registration services, especially in rural and underprivileged areas. "The development and rollout of the digital eCRVS system are examples of what we can accomplish when we unite our strengths and resources," explained Ms. Munduate. "These achievements have not only increased birth registration rates but have also laid a strong foundation for the future." 

Ms. Munduate pointed out that, in 2023, the government, with support from UNICEF and other partners, successfully registered over 11.5 million children under five. However, she acknowledged that challenges remain in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 16.9, which aims to provide legal identity for all, including birth registration, by 2030. "To reach this target, we must strengthen the institutional and technical capacities of the National Population Commission (NPC) and CRVS partners, support the digitalization of birth registration processes, and ensure adequate financial resources are allocated." 

"As the National Population Commission, we are fully committed to ensuring that every child in Nigeria is registered at birth. The launch of the Renewed Hope Initiative marks a significant step forward in this mission. By accelerating birth registration, we are not only fulfilling a legal obligation but also laying the foundation for every child's access to essential services and their rightful place in society. Together, we will ensure that no child is left behind, and every child in Nigeria is given the recognition and opportunities they deserve." — Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, Chairman, National Population Commission. 

Both leaders urged traditional and religious leaders, women's organizations, and community influencers to take up the cause of public awareness and collective action. One of the most important factors in making sure every kid in Nigeria is registered and accounted for is the National CRVS Coordination Committee, which President Tinubu just established. The Renewed Hope Initiative, in collaboration with UNICEF, the National Population Commission, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Identity Management Commission, and Barnksforte Technologies Limited, aims to accelerate birth registration and improve civil registration systems across Nigeria. This effort will ensure that every child has a legal identity, thereby protecting their rights and giving them the opportunity to thrive. 

As the launch event concluded, the message was clear: the work done today will shape the future of Nigeria, ensuring that every child is recognized, protected, and given the opportunity to realize their full potential.