The Biodun Oyebanji-led government in Ekiti State has called on residents of the state to embrace, support and participate in the ongoing e-birth registration (DBR) exercise of children from 0 to 5 years old to ensure proper documentation and enable government plan adequately and effectively for their future.
Speaking during a press conference in Ado Ekiti, the Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning and Performance Management, Mr. Niyi Adebayo said the adoption of digital birth registration would create a data base for the state and federal governments for proper planning and policy formulation.
He urged parents and guardians to prioritize the registration of their children, explaining that the birth certificate is not only a vital legal document but also a requirement for obtaining international passports and enrolling in schools.
While highlighting the importance of accurate data for implementing developmental policies and ensuring government resources are allocated appropriately, Mr. Adebayo assured residents that the digital process is simple, free, and accessible at designated centres in all local government areas of the state.
In her remarks, the State Director, National Population Commission, Dr. (Mrs.) Olufunke Olowookere, who explained that the digital birth registration is a crucial step towards securing the rights of children, explained that registering a child from birth would not only establish their identity but also ensure their access to critical services such as healthcare service, education, social protection, among others.
She highlighted the importance of the digital birth registration to include , connection to National Identity and Management Commission database and generation of the child’s National Identity Number, guarantee child’s identity, nationality and name, support child’s protection and anti-trafficking efforts, facilitate access to education and social service, among others.
While calling on parent and guardians across the state to embrace the digital birth registration exercise, Dr Olowookere explained that the registration will run through December 2024 with the target of registering over 156,000 children across the state.
She added that registered children would receive a digital birth certificate, which is recognized as a legal document for identification and future opportunities.
The State Commissioner for Information, Rt Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, who explained the unwavering commitment of the state government to the exercise, maintained that it is compulsory for every parent and guardian in the state to register their children for the exercise.
While explaining that the register would significantly improve the states population data, aid effective planning and equitable resources distribution, Olatunbosun urged parents and guidance to embrace the program, stressing it’s importance in securing a brighter future for the state’s younger generation.
Packaged by Mayowa Owogbade
