UNICEF Warns of Birth Registration Crisis for Nigerian Kids

The United Nations Children Education Fund (UNICEF) has issued a warning that millions of Nigerian children lacking birth registration are at risk of exclusion from essential public services and social protection programs. Celine Lafoucriere, Chief of UNICEF Lagos Field Office, stated that legal identity is crucial for children to access and exercise their basic rights throughout life.

During a media dialogue organized by the National Population Commission (NPC) in collaboration with UNICEF, Lafoucriere described birth registration as a fundamental right, highlighting that children without proof of legal identity may struggle to access education, healthcare, and social services. She noted that the absence of legal identity could hinder individuals' rights in adulthood, including voting and inheritance.

Lafoucriere emphasized the need for accurate registration figures for effective government planning and budgeting. Abiola Kekere-Ekun, Lagos State Director of NPC, echoed the call for stronger media support to enhance public awareness about the importance of birth registration.

Dennis Onoise, a UNICEF Child Protection Specialist, identified challenges such as weak legal frameworks and low community awareness affecting birth registration in Nigeria.