UNICEF, NPC Train Gombe Health Workers on Digital Birth Registration

From Hajara Usman, Gombe

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in collaboration with the National Population Commission (NPC), has conducted a three-day Train-the-Trainers workshop in Gombe State to equip frontline health workers and ward representatives with the skills to implement digital birth registration.

Our correspondent reports that a total of 228 participants—114 from health facilities and 114 ward focal persons—were trained to use digital devices for real-time birth registration across the state.

Also, the training is part of efforts to enhance Nigeria’s Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) system and link birth records with the National Identification Number (NIN).

Speaking at the workshop, Dr Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of UNICEF’s Bauchi Field Office, said the training was critical for improving birth registration rates at the community level. “Birth registration is every child’s first right,” she noted, emphasising the importance of reaching underserved areas through local engagement.

Mr Ali Usman, NPC State Director, praised the commitment of stakeholders and local government officials, adding that the training marks a key step in ensuring that no child is left unregistered.

Representing the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Mrs Binta Bello, Vice Chairperson of Gombe ALGON, pledged sustained support from LGA Chairmen, including maintenance of the devices deployed for the programme.

UNICEF’s Child Protection Specialist, Mrs Ladi Alabi, said the training also covered coordination with traditional birth attendants and primary healthcare providers, who will play a key role in notifying and capturing birth data electronically.

NPC’s Technical Expert, Mr Arukwe Oscar Joe, highlighted the advantages of the digital system, including improved accuracy, reliability, and comprehensive data collection to support national planning.