How to apply for birth, death certificates online in Nigeria

Nigerians can now register births and deaths, apply for birth attestation, correct civil registration records, and verify certificates online through a new digital platform launched by the Federal Government. The National Population Commission (NPC) introduced the service, announced by the National Orientation Agency (NOA) on Tuesday, as part of a national effort to digitize civil registration services.

The NOA stated that the self-service platform is designed to eliminate the lengthy queues and extensive paperwork previously required for obtaining birth and death certificates. "Getting a birth or death certificate in Nigeria just got easier! You can also visit any NPC registration centre nationwide for assistance," the agency announced.

Proper registration of births and deaths is crucial for citizens to gain legal identity, which improves access to essential services like healthcare, education, passports, and financial assistance, as well as eligibility for government programs. The NPC emphasized that death registration continues to be free. Applicants need to provide the informant's National Identification Number (NIN), or the reason for its absence if the deceased lacks one. Required information includes the deceased's personal details, place and usual residence of death, occupation, date and cause of death, marital status, literacy level, and whether a medical doctor certified the death.

For birth certificates, the online self-service registration has a fee of ₦5,000, although registration for children under five remains free at NPC centers. To qualify for the online application, the child must have been born in Nigeria, possess a National Identification Number, and have at least one Nigerian parent with a valid birth certificate. The certificate can only be downloaded once, and subsequent requests for reprints will require a new application. Payments are non-refundable. The platform is accessible via the NPC website, and assistance is available at NPC registration centers nationwide.

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Getting a birth or death certificate in Nigeria just got easier! You can also visit any NPC registration centre nationwide for assistance.