The First Lady of Nigeria, Sen. Remi Tinubu, has launched the Renewed Hope Initiative Project to advance birth registration across the country. The initiative aims to significantly improve birth registration services with strong backing from the United Nations and UNICEF.
“Our children, the treasure of our nation, must have their rights and privileges guaranteed from the very beginning,” stated Sen. Tinubu. She highlighted the importance of a well-functioning civil registration and vital statistics system to protect these rights and ensure that no violations go unnoticed.
Cristian Munduate, UNICEF’s Representative in Nigeria, also addressed the launch, expressing appreciation for the government’s dedication to extending birth registration services, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
“The development and rollout of the digital eCRVS system demonstrate what can be achieved when we combine our strengths and resources,” said Ms. Munduate. She noted that over 11.5 million children under five were registered in 2023, thanks to support from UNICEF and other partners.
However, she acknowledged ongoing challenges in meeting Sustainable Development Goal 16.9, which aims to provide legal identity for all by 2030. “To achieve this goal, we must enhance the National Population Commission (NPC) and CRVS partners’ institutional and technical capacities, support the digitalization of birth registration processes, and ensure adequate funding.”
Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, Chairman of the National Population Commission, emphasized the commitment to registering every child at birth.
“The Renewed Hope Initiative marks a significant advance in this mission. By expediting birth registration, we are not just fulfilling a legal obligation but also ensuring every child can access essential services and their rightful place in society.
Together, we will ensure that no child is left behind and every child in Nigeria receives the recognition and opportunities they deserve.”
Both Sen. Tinubu and Kwarra called on traditional and religious leaders, women’s organizations, and community influencers to raise public awareness and drive collective action. The newly established National CRVS Coordination Committee, spearheaded by President Tinubu, is pivotal to this effort.
The Renewed Hope Initiative, in partnership with UNICEF, the National Population Commission, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Identity Management Commission, and Barnksforte Technologies Limited, seeks to enhance birth registration and civil registration systems nationwide.
This collaborative effort aims to ensure that every child has a legal identity, thereby protecting their rights and providing them with opportunities to thrive.
In support of this initiative, Adewale Alebiosu, Choreographer and Artistic Director at Tru Dance Art, highlighted the role of dance and drama in raising awareness about birth registration.
“We are excited to use dance and drama to promote birth registration, helping people understand the importance of this initiative and its impact on ensuring that every newborn enjoys the benefits provided by the government.”
As the launch event concluded, the message was clear: the actions taken today will shape Nigeria’s future, ensuring that every child is recognized, protected, and given the chance to reach their full potential.
