Kakalistiq.com reports that Barrister Olayinka Oladunjoye, the Honourable Federal Commissioner of the National Population Commission (NPC), engaged Lagosians and Nigerians at large in an enlightening discussion on Radio Lagos’ Ojutaye program on Tuesday, November 19, 2024.
She outlined the commission’s multifaceted role and ongoing strategic projects, including efforts to ensure accurate population data and the issuance of authentic certificates for children.
Barrister Oladunjoye emphasized the commission’s readiness to conduct the national census before a change in government necessitated a temporary suspension. “We were ready to count the population census, but when the 2023 general election was imminent, we were asked to suspend it,” she said. While the primary mandate of the NPC is population counting, she noted that the commission also handles critical tasks such as the registration of births and deaths.
The federal commissioner representing Lagos State highlighted the importance of the ongoing e-birth certificate program for children aged 0–5. She explained, “Presently, we want to let the public know about the certificate of children because most kids don’t have certificates to prove that they are Nigerians. If the government doesn’t know the number in the state, how will they be able to know the amount of infrastructure needed?”
The program aims to address the gap in vital statistics by December 2024, providing parents with authentic, forgery-proof certificates through online registration. “The certificate being made for the children is authentic and can’t be forged anywhere else. The ones made before were being forged, which is why we now use online registration. The registration comes with a NIN (National Identification Number), and the only thing the child has to do when they turn 18 is an attestation,” she explained.
Barrister Oladunjoye also revealed plans for a special program targeting homeless individuals. “We have different data on the homeless, and when the time is right, we will implement these special programs. To ensure inclusivity, the federal government has ensured that it is being carried out in all states, with Comptrollers in our Local Government offices overseeing the creation of e-certificates,” she said.
The e-certificate program not only provides children with proof of age and identity but also lays the foundation for better infrastructure planning and access to essential services. “Now as well, they can come to us and we can go to them. After December, they will have to come to us at our offices and PHCs in Lagos State,” she urged, appealing to parents to prioritize registering their children.
While the NPC continues to make strides in its initiatives, the commissioner acknowledges the challenges faced in reaching every household. Nonetheless, the commitment remains unwavering. “This program is for the betterment of every Nigerian child. We implore parents to come to us if we do not come to them,” she concluded.
The National Population Commission’s efforts underscore the importance of accurate data in national development, ensuring every child is accounted for and recognized as a citizen of Nigeria.
