The Nigerian Population Commission (NPC) has launched an innovative online self-service platform to facilitate birth registration across the country.
This initiative is backed by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and UNICEF to ensure that every child in Nigeria is registered at birth, a critical step toward establishing foundational identity for all children.
The new platform allows parents to register their children's births online, simplifying the process significantly. While registration is free for children under the age of five at NPC registration centers, an online service fee of NGN2,000 applies.
The platform is exclusively available for children born in Nigeria who possess a National Identification Number (NIN). Additionally, at least one parent must be Nigerian and hold a valid birth certificate.
Upon successful registration, parents can download the birth certificate once, with the option to request reprints through the NPC website. It is important to note that payments made for this service are non-refundable.
NPC Chairman, Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, emphasized the importance of this initiative in providing Nigerian children with their first legal identity, which is essential for accessing vital government services such as education and healthcare.
Dr. Ibrahim Sessay, Chief Child Protection at UNICEF Nigeria, highlighted the need to address existing gaps in birth registration and promote a data-driven approach for children's development.
To register a birth certificate online in Nigeria, follow these straightforward steps:
1. Visit the Official Portal: Access the National Population Commission's self-service birth registration website at (https://birthreg-selfservice.nationalpopulation.gov.ng).
2. Eligibility Requirements: Ensure that the child is born in Nigeria and possesses a National Identification Number (NIN). At least one parent must be Nigerian and hold a valid birth certificate.
3. Cost of Registration: Birth registration for children under five years is free at any NPC registration center. For children aged five and above, a fee of NGN 2,000 applies.
4. Application Process: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the application. Note that certificates can only be downloaded once after a successful application.
5. If you need a reprint of the certificate, you can access this service through the NPC website.
6. Be aware that all payments made are non-refundable.
