A birth certificate is an official document given to every person born in Nigeria that can also be used to confirm the person’s date of birth.
This certificate is issued by the National Population Commission (NPC). This commission is responsible for making sure everyone born in Nigeria is registered and accounted for.
This guide will teach you what a birth certificate is, how to get one yourself, requirements for getting one, and how to replace your missing certificate.
What is a birth certificate?
A birth certificate is an official document that proves an individual’s name, date of birth, place of birth, and their parents’ names.
In Nigeria, the birth certificate is an important document that is needed in several processes such as school admission, getting a PVC, government job documentation, getting a visa, and immigration into other countries.
Sample of a birth certificate
What is birth registration?
Birth registration is the process of recording a child’s birth at the National Population Commission where the child was born, while a birth certificate is the document that you get containing your details of when you were born.
What is the difference between a birth certificate and a birth attestation?
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Birth certificate |
Birth attestation |
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A birth certificate is the standard, primary proof of birth issued when a birth is registered at or near the time it happens. |
A birth attestation is a substitute document issued to adults who never had a birth certificate. |
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A birth certificate is a document that is issued to you as a child. |
An attestation of birth is issued to adults aged 18+. |
Birth certificate requirements in Nigeria
The requirements below include requirements for both birth certificate and birth attestation certificate.
- Must be between the ages of 0-17
- Parent’s valid identification (NIN)
- Birth notification form
- Hospital birth certificate
- Immunization card
- Affidavit of declaration of age (Birth attestation)
- NIN (Birth attestation)
- Passport photograph
- Completed NPC attestation form (Birth attestation)
How to get a birth certificate in Nigeria
- Determine whether you need birth registration or birth attestation.
- Visit the National Population Commission or an appropriate NPC registration centre closest to you.
- Provide the required documents; you are to have all your documents at hand.
- Complete the application form correctly; make sure to fill this form carefully to avoid making mistakes.
- Make payment of the amount requested; make sure you pay only to the NPC official account to avoid getting scammed
- Track your application; keep a close eye on your portal after completing the process.
- Download, collect, or reprint your certificate after approval.
Get your birth certificate
How to get Attestation of Birth in Nigeria
If you are 18+ and were never issued a birth certificate, you will have to apply for an Attestation of Birth.
- Swear an Age Declaration Affidavit at a magistrate or high court near you.
- Submit the affidavit + your NIN + your parents’ details/ID to NPC digitally or physically.
- Wait for approval and download your Attestation of Birth.
Sample of an attestation Letter
How to correct a birth certificate
A birth certificate correction can be done simply online through the following steps:
- Visit National Population to begin.
- Choose Modify Record.
- Select the birth record and choose the detail you need to correct.
- Enter the correct information.
- Upload your current certificate and proof of correction.
- Pay the assigned fee and submit.
How to replace and reprint a birth certificate
If your birth certificate is damaged or lost, you can request a replacement or reprint it through Certificate Reissuance.
Also, those with an old birth certificate can use the certificate reissuance service to request a digital version of their certificate.
Online process for birth certificate replacement and reprint
- Go to the NPC reprint portal.
- Select Start Application and fill in your details.
- Pay the reprint fee of ₦3,000.
- Download the digital certificate.
Physical process for birth certificate replacement and reprint
- Prepare the physical copies of the required documents.
- Visit the nearest NPC office.
- Fill out the application form and pay the official fee of ₦3,000.
- Wait and collect your birth certificate when approved.
Frequently asked questions
You can not legally apply for a birth certificate twice. However, you can ask for extra copies or a reprint of an existing birth certificate.
You can visit a National Population Commission office near you or complete the process online at the National Population Commission.
Yes, you can apply for a birth certificate online through the official portal of the National Population Commission.
Yes, you can replace a lost birth certificate.
An adult in Nigeria can get an attestation certificate.
CONCLUSION
Getting a birth certificate in Nigeria is easier when you follow the right process like the one above.
Whether you are registering a child, applying for an adult birth attestation, correcting an error, or replacing a lost certificate, ensure your documents are accurate and apply through the National Population Commission to avoid delays or unnecessary costs.
Get your birth certificate
