STRENGTHENING TIES: KOICA DELEGATION EXPLORES NIGERIA'S CIVIL REGISTRATION SYSTEM

Today, in a significant move to explore collaboration opportunities in the Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) system, the Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, received in audience a delegation from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the Cameroonian government at the NPC Headquarters, Abuja.

Led by Madame Nfor Epse Esso Catherine Mugha, Technical Counselor at the Ministry of Decentralization and Local Development in Cameroon, the delegation aimed to study Nigeria's CRVS system, share challenges and innovations, and take lessons learned back home to enhance their own system.

Madame Mugha emphasized the diverse expertise within the delegation, stating, "We are here to share in your challenges and innovations in the CRVS system and take valuable lessons home to enhance our own processes."

She expressed hopes that this visit would foster stronger ties between the NPC and Cameroon, particularly in knowledge sharing and capacity building.

Lee Sangeun, Deputy Country Representative of KOICA in Cameroon, highlighted the importance of the study tour, aimed at equipping Cameroonian officials with insights to improve their CRVS framework.

In his address, NPC Chairman, Hon. Kwarra expressed his enthusiasm for the delegation's visit, noting that the organized peer review process would benefit both Nigeria and Cameroon. He outlined the NPC's constitutional role in registering civil events and vital statistics including periodic surveys and censuses, as well as its collaborative efforts with various agencies to fulfill this mandate.

Kwarra also shared details about the NPC's innovative partnership with Barnksforte Technologies Limited, which has led to the development of VITALREG, an integrated digital platform launched by President Tinubu last year. He acknowledged UNICEF's support in enhancing Nigeria's CRVS system.

Mr. Adedayo Bankole, CEO of Barnksforte Technologies Limited, reaffirmed his company’s commitment to providing digital solutions for civil registration in Nigeria and encouraged KOICA to support the NPC in these endeavours.

The meeting concluded with a presentation on the current status of Nigeria's CRVS system, marking a significant step toward mutual growth and development in civil registration practices.

This development underscores Nigeria's commitment to enhancing its CRVS system, aligning with global initiatives like the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 16.9.2, which advocates for legal identity for all.