UNICEF Calls for Enhanced Efforts to Achieve Full Birth Registration in Lagos
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has emphasized the need for the Lagos State Government to take stronger measures to close the remaining six percent gap in universal birth registration for children under five years old. This call comes as part of ongoing efforts to ensure that every child in the state is officially registered at birth, which is a critical step toward protecting their rights and accessing essential services.
Celine Lafoucriere, Chief of UNICEF’s Lagos Field Office, made this appeal during the official launch of the e-birth registration initiative for children under one year. The event took place at the Lagos Island East Local Council Development Area (LCDA) Secretariat, highlighting the importance of digital solutions in streamlining the registration process.
The launch was attended by several key figures, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Federal Commissioner of the National Population Commission for Lagos State, Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye, and various top state and local government officials. The presence of these leaders underscored the significance of the initiative in improving administrative efficiency and ensuring accurate record-keeping.
During the event, nursing mothers brought their infants for registration, demonstrating the community’s active participation in the process. This hands-on approach not only helps in increasing the number of registered births but also fosters awareness about the importance of birth registration among parents and caregivers.
The Importance of Birth Registration
Birth registration is a fundamental right that ensures a child’s legal identity. It is essential for accessing education, healthcare, and other social services. Without proper documentation, children may face barriers to enrollment in schools, eligibility for government assistance, and even the ability to travel or obtain a passport later in life.
The Lagos State Government has been working on improving birth registration rates through various initiatives. The introduction of e-birth registration aims to make the process more efficient, reducing the time and effort required for families to register their children. This digital system also minimizes the risk of errors and fraud, ensuring that records are accurate and up-to-date.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite progress, there are still challenges to achieving full coverage. Some of these include limited access to registration centers in rural areas, lack of awareness about the importance of birth registration, and bureaucratic hurdles that can discourage families from completing the process.
To address these issues, collaboration between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local communities is essential. Training for frontline workers, public awareness campaigns, and the expansion of registration points are all necessary steps toward achieving universal birth registration.
Future Steps
The launch of the e-birth registration initiative marks a significant milestone in Lagos’ journey toward full compliance with international standards for child protection. As the program rolls out across the state, it will be important to monitor its impact and make adjustments where needed.
UNICEF and other stakeholders will continue to support the Lagos State Government in this endeavor, providing technical assistance, resources, and advocacy to ensure that no child is left behind.