The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has emphasized that a robust and efficient civil registration system is key to National Development and Governance in the country.
Senator Tinubu who spoke at the official Launch of the 2024 UNICEF/RHI Commemorative Birth Certificate at the State House in Abuja on Thursday noted that the renewed drive for the registration of every life birth will assist the nation achieve Sustainable Development Goal 16.
The First Lady noted that “a robust and efficient civil registration system is key to Nigerians development and governance. This ensures that every live birth is recorded, and forms the basis for policy, planning, and service delivery that meets the needs of all Nigerians. This is more than an administrative task; it provides the foundation for our social security”.
She highlighted the benefits accruable to any society which prioritizes birth registration which includes proper and adequate planning by government, saying “Our children, should be guaranteed their rights and privileges from the onset. A well-functioning civil registration and vital statistics safeguards these rights and ensures that no violation goes unnoticed.
“To all parents, birth registration is very vital. It is the child’s legal proof of identity, as a Nigerian, without which children will not be fully recognised by the Government. They could miss out on government’s provision of healthcare, education and other social amenities. Without a birth certificate, children will be unable to prove their age and this puts them at a great disadvantage. I therefore encourage all parents to register the birth of their children and obtain authentic birth certificates recognised by the government”.
The First Lady explained that the commemorative birth certificate will run from 29th August to 31st December, 2024.
In his remarks, the UNICEF Country Representative, Ms Christian Munduate, appreciated the efforts of the Nigerian Government in ensuring that no birth goes unregistered especially with the introduction of technological methods to ramp up the statistics.
“Nigeria has done a lot and now with the First Lady lending her voice and her initiative, I am sure we will achieve the desired mark”.
Also speaking, the Dein of Agbor HRM Dr Benjamin Keagborekuzi noted the pivotal role women play in achieving success in all aspects of life. The Paramount ruler also urged youth to be patient with the present administration.
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