UNICEF and NPC Join Forces with Corps Members for Digital Birth Registration | In a groundbreaking partnership, UNICEF and the National Population Commission (NPC) have teamed up with NYSC to register 12.7 million births in Nigeria in 2023.
This initiative will provide birth certificates for children under the age of 5, capturing their names and nationality.
With 800 Corps Members working alongside NPC officials, the project aims to create a digital birth registration system to store vital information securely.
A New Chapter in Nigerian Child Protection
A Tripartite Collaboration for a Monumental Task
In a move set to revolutionize child protection measures in Nigeria, The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the National Population Commission (NPC) have enlisted the help of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for an ambitious project.
Their mission is to register approximately 12.7 million births in 2023, targeting children under the age of 5 across 21 states, 456 Local Government Areas (LGAs), and 4,978 wards in the country.
The Implication of the Initiative
This bold initiative extends far beyond mere number crunching.
The registration and issuance of birth certificates provide each child with legal identity – a fundamental human right, underscoring their individuality, nationality, and existence.
The data compiled in this project will be securely stored in a cutting-edge digital birth registration system, held in the safe hands of the NPC.
The Role of Corps Members
In the practical implementation of this initiative, UNICEF and NPC will deploy a force of 800 Corps members who will collaborate closely with officials from the National Population Commission.
This strategic alliance, while facilitating the immense task of birth registration, also fosters an environment of learning and professional development for these young Corps members.
A Common Vision and Optimism
During a recent Memorandum of Understanding signing at the National Directorate Headquarters in Abuja, UNICEF Chief Child Protection, Dr. Ibrahim Sesay expressed high optimism.
Dr. Sesay firmly believes in the potential success of this tripartite collaboration, given the alignment of their common goals towards national development.
Partnering for National Development
The NYSC, represented by the Director, Corps Welfare and Health Services, Mr. Omotade Ayodele, reiterated their willingness to partner with organizations committed to contributing to national development.
The NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Yusha’u Dogara Ahmed, echoed this sentiment, commending the initiative’s potential to transform the lives of millions of children in Nigeria.
Ensuring Security and Proper Remuneration
While applauding the initiative, the DG, who was represented by Hajiya Zainab Isah, Director, Community Development Service and Special Projects, highlighted the importance of providing adequate security and proper remuneration for the Corps Members engaged in the exercise.
The NPC Ready for Collaboration
The Director-General of the NPC, Dr. Tellson Ojogun Osifo, also signaled readiness for the collaboration, further solidifying the commitment of these major organizations towards this critical cause.
This unique collaboration between UNICEF, the NPC, and NYSC, is more than just a project; it is a giant leap towards securing the futures of millions of Nigerian children.
The birth certificate, a small piece of paper to many, can mean a world of difference for a child – it is proof of their existence, identity, and nationality.
This project, through its scale and ambition, exemplifies the power of collaboration in addressing national development challenges.
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FAQs
What is the main goal of the UNICEF, NPC, and NYSC collaboration?
The primary aim of the collaboration is to register approximately 12.7 million births in 2023, providing legal identity to children under the age of 5 across Nigeria.
Who will be involved in the practical implementation of this project?
800 Corps members will be working alongside officials from the National Population Commission for the implementation.
Where will the data of every child be stored?
The data of every registered child will be securely stored in a digital birth registration system under the custody of the NPC.
What does a birth certificate provide to a child?
A birth certificate provides a child with a legal identity, confirming their individuality, nationality, and existence.
Is there any provision for the security and remuneration of the Corps members involved in this project?
Yes, adequate security measures and proper remuneration for the Corps members involved in the project have been advocated for.