The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Abbas Tajudeen, has called for the adoption of a modern, technology-driven system to register births, deaths, marriages, and other vital events across Nigeria.
During a public hearing on the Bill to Repeal and Re-enact the Births, Deaths, and Compulsory Registration Act, Dr. Tajudeen emphasized that accurate and reliable data form the foundation of effective national planning and governance.
Represented by Hon. Godwin Offiono, a member representing Cross River State, the Speaker explained that the proposed legislation aims to modernize Nigeria’s civil registration and vital statistics (CRVS) system by introducing an electronic framework for data collection and management.
“Accurate and timely registration of births, stillbirths, deaths, marriages, and other vital events is essential for national planning, social development, and good governance,” Abbas said. “The current law was enacted in an era without digital tools or modern data systems, and it is time for an upgrade.”
Dr. Tajudeen added that the electronic registration framework would eliminate duplication and fraud, improve identity management, and make it easier for citizens to access vital records nationwide.
Chairman of the House Committee on Population, Hon. Odimayo Okunjimi, described the existing legal framework for civil registration as obsolete and inadequate for a digitally driven society.
He noted that weak data integration between federal and state systems as well as the lack of digital infrastructure have hindered effective and secure recordkeeping.
“Without a reliable civil registration and vital statistics system, Nigeria cannot achieve accurate planning, efficient service delivery, or effective population management,” Okunjimi warned.
Also speaking, Federal Commissioner representing Adamawa State in the National Population Commission (NPC), Mr. Clifford Zirra, said the proposed amendments were critical to strengthening the Commission’s mandate.
He explained that the bill would remove overlaps in responsibilities, provide clarity in operations, and enhance the effective implementation of the NPC’s objectives.
