By George Ozalla
The Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, has called for dedicated budget lines for Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) at both federal and state levels. This initiative aims to accelerate registration processes and establish a comprehensive, inclusive CRVS system across Nigeria.
Hon. Kwarra made these remarks during the inaugural meeting of the National Coordination Committee on Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS), held on July 31, 2025, at the Abuja Continental Hotel. He expressed gratitude to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for his leadership in establishing the committee and acknowledged the support from UNICEF Nigeria and other development partners.
The NPC Chairman emphasized that the committee’s work is foundational to legal identity, social protection, effective governance, and national development. He highlighted the necessity of accurate and timely recording of every birth, death, and vital event, which is crucial for the mission to create a digital, secure, and accessible CRVS system.
Hon. Kwarra outlined the committee’s objectives, including fostering coordination among stakeholders, harmonizing legal frameworks, promoting digital innovation, and ensuring sustainable investment. Despite existing challenges, he expressed confidence in the committee’s potential to turn obstacles into opportunities.
Sen. Victor Umeh, Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Identity and Population, stressed the need for coordination among agencies responsible for CRVS, noting overlapping mandates that could hinder progress. He called for harmonization of legal and policy frameworks to enhance CRVS coverage.
The meeting featured contributions from various stakeholders, including the Director-General of NIMC, Engr. Dr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote; Statistician-General of the Federation, Prince Adeyemi Adeniran; and UNICEF Nigeria Chief Child Protection, Dr. Ibrahim Sessay, all of whom recognized the importance of credible census data and the need for enhanced collaboration and coordination among agencies.
The NPC remains committed to leveraging technology, stakeholder collaboration, and public engagement to ensure that every Nigerian understands and participates in the registration process, ultimately contributing to a more just and inclusive society.
