The Bauchi State government has called for increased birth registration across the state, describing it as a critical tool for protecting children’s rights, improving access to essential services and strengthening development planning.

The Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning and Multilateral Coordination, Hajiya Amina Katagum, made the call on Saturday in Bauchi during the 2026 World Population Day celebration.

The event was organised by the ministry in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Ms Katagum said every registered birth was more than a statistic, adding, “It formally recognises a child’s identity and guarantees access to education, healthcare, legal protection and other essential services.”

She noted that reliable population data remains the foundation of effective governance.

According to the commissioner, this data enables governments to make informed decisions on providing schools, hospitals, roads, water facilities and other critical infrastructure.

He urged parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, communities and other stakeholders to promote birth registration and support data collection initiatives to facilitate sustainable development.

She added that the state government would continue to partner with development agencies to strengthen civil registration and vital statistics systems for evidence-based planning and improved service delivery.

Delivering a message from UNFPA executive director, Diene Keita, the gender and reproductive health analyst and UNFPA state programme officer in Bauchi, Deborah Tabara, stressed the importance of birth registration.

“Birth registration and reliable population data are essential to ensuring that every child is counted and every young person has the opportunity to realise their aspirations,” she said.

Ms Keita called for greater investment in education, healthcare, housing, employment opportunities, childcare support and other social protection measures.

She said findings from UNFPA’s recent demographic futures survey showed that while most young people still desire marriage and parenthood, many fear they may never achieve those goals due to economic uncertainty, housing challenges and widening inequalities.

“Addressing these challenges will empower young people to make informed decisions about their lives and contribute meaningfully to national development,” she said.

Earlier, the permanent secretary in the ministry, Alhaji Ahmed Rufa’i, said the commemoration provided an opportunity to reflect on population issues and to reaffirm the commitment to improving the well-being of young people through sound policies, reliable data, and strategic investments.

The theme for the 2026 World Population Day is: “Realising the Hope and Potential of Young People in a Changing World.”

 (NAN)