Nigerian State to Provide Orphans with Digital ID

The Plateau State Government in Nigeria has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Both Ends Believing (BEB) and the Association of Orphanages and Homes Operators in Nigeria (ASOHON) to implement digital identity tracking for children in orphanages, addressing growing concerns about child trafficking in the region.

The initiative, announced on November 4, 2024, will use BEB’s Children First Software (CFS), a digital identity management system that creates and maintains profiles of children in institutional care. The CFS platform has been implemented in several countries to help government authorities track vulnerable children and facilitate their placement in permanent family environments.

According to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the state has identified organized trafficking networks operating across its 17 Local Government Areas. “Many of our children are being taken out of the state; there is a cartel in Plateau State that links up with parents to traffic children to other parts of the country. This, we would not tolerate,” he said.

As part of the agreement, BEB has established a monitoring laboratory in Plateau State to oversee orphanage operations and ensure compliance with child protection standards. The laboratory will help authorities track registered and unregistered orphanages, addressing a key challenge in child welfare monitoring.

Bruce Graham, President of BEB, emphasized the organization’s mission: “Our goal is for children to be integrated into safe and loving families. We work to create digital profiles of children living in institutions around the world.” The CFS system maintains detailed records including medical history, educational background, and family connections when available.

The state government has also announced plans to strengthen educational access for vulnerable children, including those in orphanages. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to protect children’s rights and prevent exploitation through improved documentation and monitoring.

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November 5, 2024 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team