NIMC hits 136 million enrolments as identity overhaul begins

Nigeria's National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has successfully enrolled more than 136 million Nigerians and legal residents into the national identity database. This achievement marks a significant step as the government begins implementing a new law aimed at transforming the nation's digital identity infrastructure.

The new legislation, which repeals the 2007 NIMC Act, establishes the National Identification Number (NIN) as the cornerstone of Nigeria's identity ecosystem under a "one person, one identity" framework. The goal is to create a unified and trusted identity system for all residents. Under this new law, NIMC will function as the root certificate authority for the country's digital identity infrastructure, with expanded duties encompassing digital credentials, cybersecurity, and data protection.

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We have successfully enrolled more than 136 million Nigerians and legal residents into the National Identity Database, and NIMC will collaborate with the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning to leverage the NIN for economic planning and national development initiatives.

NIMC Director-General Abisoye Coker-Odusote stated the commission's objective is to complete the enrollment and issuance of NINs to all Nigerians and legal residents as swiftly as possible. "We have successfully enrolled more than 136 million Nigerians and legal residents into the National Identity Database, and NIMC will collaborate with the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning to leverage the NIN for economic planning and national development initiatives," she said.

The government views a comprehensive identity database as crucial for enhancing public service delivery, improving economic planning, and broadening access to digital services, including financial inclusion and social intervention programs. Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, described the new law as a significant milestone for a secure and inclusive identity management system. He stressed that the law's effectiveness hinges on its implementation and the benefits it provides to citizens, calling for closer cooperation among all levels of government to eliminate duplicate identity databases. "The National Identification Number should serve as Nigeria’s single, universally accepted identity standard, supporting efficient service delivery and good governance," Bagudu added.

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The National Identification Number should serve as Nigeria’s single, universally accepted identity standard, supporting efficient service delivery and good governance.