NPC, UNICEF, WHO COLLABORATE TO REVITALIZE CIVIL REGISTRATION SYSTEM IN NIGERIA

In a significant move towards strengthening national development, the National Population Commission (NPC), in partnership with the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) and World Health Organisation (WHO), has initiated a comprehensive three-day rapid assessment of Nigeria's Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) system. This critical workshop aims to evaluate progress, identify challenges, and chart a strategic course for future advancement.

Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, Chairman of the NPC while delivering a keynote address to open the workshop in Abuja, underscored the vital importance of a well-functioning CRVS system, emphasizing its role as the cornerstone of vital statistics that facilitate effective planning and resource allocation.

Kwarra stressed that registering births, deaths, marriages, and divorces is not only a legal obligation but also a fundamental social necessity that safeguards human rights and informs public policy.

However, NPC Chairman called on all participants to actively contribute their expertise, stating, "Together, we can ensure that Nigeria’s CRVS system becomes a model of efficiency, reliability, and inclusivity."

"As discussions unfold, the collective goal remains clear: to transform Nigeria's CRVS system into a robust framework that not only registers vital events but also acts as a catalyst for national development and social inclusion," he said.

Director-General of NPC, Dr. Osifo Tellson Ojogun inaugurated the national Technical Working Group for the CRVS Strategic Acceleration Improvement Plan composed of experts and stakeholders from various sectors.

He commended each member of the TWG for their willingness to contribute their expertise and time to this important endeavor stating, ‘Your dedication and commitment will be crucial in developing a plan that is comprehensive, effective, and sustainable.’

Key Objectives of the Rapid Assessment Workshop include:

• Reviewing Past Progress: A thorough analysis of the 2017-2022 National CRVS Strategic Action Plan to highlight achievements and shortcomings
• Evaluating System Effectiveness: Assessing the current strengths and weaknesses of the CRVS system, exploring opportunities for enhancement through advanced data collection and technology integration
• Raising Awareness: Promoting understanding of civil registration's pivotal role in national growth and its impact on achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Planning for the Future: Developing a new National CRVS Strategic Acceleration and Improvement Plan for 2024-2030, targeting universal registration and improved data utilization in governance

The workshop brought together representatives from relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as development partners, including UNICEF, WHO, UNFPA, NBS, NIMC, NPHCDA and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen Nigeria's CRVS system, following the launch of the electronic Civil Registration and Vital Statistics System (e-CRVS) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in November 2023. The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has also launched the UNICEF/RHI Commemorative Birth Certificate for 2024, aiming to enhance birth registration in Nigeria.