The Federal Government has launched a new digital platform that allows Nigerians to register births and deaths, apply for birth attestation, correct civil registration records and verify certificates online.
The platform, introduced by the National Population Commission, was announced on Tuesday by the National Orientation Agency as part of efforts to digitise civil registration services and make the process easier for citizens across the country.
According to the NOA, the self-service platform is designed to reduce long queues, paperwork and delays previously associated with obtaining birth and death certificates in Nigeria.
“Getting a birth or death certificate in Nigeria just got easier! You can also visit any NPC registration centre nationwide for assistance,” the agency said.
The NOA said proper birth and death registration is important because it gives citizens legal identity and improves access to healthcare, education, passports, financial services and other government programmes.
Under the new arrangement, applicants seeking birth certificates can begin the process through the NPC self-service portal: https://www.birthreg-selfservice.nationalpopulation.gov.ng/
The Commission, however, clarified that birth registration for children under five remains free at all NPC registration centres nationwide, while online self-service birth registration attracts a fee of ₦5,000.
To qualify for online birth registration, the child must have been born in Nigeria and must have a National Identification Number. At least one parent must also be a Nigerian citizen, while one parent must possess a valid birth certificate.
The NPC stated that the birth certificate can only be downloaded once after successful processing. Applicants who require another copy will have to apply for a certificate reprint through the NPC portal. It also warned that payments made on the platform are non-refundable.
For death registration, the Commission said the service remains free. Applicants can begin the process through the NPC death notification portal: https://deathnotification.nationalpopulation.gov.ng/application
Applicants are required to provide the informant’s National Identification Number before proceeding with the registration. Where the deceased does not have a NIN, the applicant must provide the reason for its absence.
The information required for death registration includes the deceased person’s personal details, place of death, usual place of residence, occupation, date and cause of death, marital status, literacy level and whether the death was certified by a medical doctor.
Applicants are also expected to select the state, local government area and NPC registration centre where the death is to be registered.
The Commission said a confirmation email will be sent after successful registration.
The NPC said Nigerians who require assistance can also visit any National Population Commission registration centre nationwide.
