How to apply for birth, death certificates online in Nigeria

The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced a digital platform for birth and death registration, making it easier for citizens to obtain these essential documents online. The National Population Commission (NPC) launched this self-service platform, aiming to reduce the time and paperwork previously required to obtain birth and death certificates.

To register a birth certificate, applicants must visit the NPC self-service portal. Birth registration for children under five years remains free, while online self-service registration incurs a N5,000 fee. To be eligible for online registration, the child must be born in Nigeria, have a National Identification Number, and have at least one parent who is a Nigerian citizen with a valid birth certificate.

Once the registration is successful, applicants can download their certificate only once. For subsequent copies, applicants must request a reprint through the NPC portal, with non-refundable payment required for each application.

Death registration remains free through the NPC platform. Applicants must provide the informant's National Identification Number, the deceased's personal details, the place and cause of death, and the registration state, local government area, and NPC registration centre. After successful registration, applicants will receive a confirmation email.

The self-service platform is accessible on the NPC website, and Nigerians requiring assistance can visit any National Population Commission registration centre across the country.