Tinubu signs NIMC Act 2026 into law, boosting Nigeria's identity system and security

President Bola Tinubu has signed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026 into law, a move the Federal Government heralds as a significant step in strengthening Nigeria’s identity management system. The legislation is expected to enhance national security, improve public service delivery, and accelerate the country’s digital transformation.

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We inherited a fractured system. But I’m happy to tell you that even last week, seven known commanders of Boko Haram and ISWAP, at the point of returning from Mecca, were arrested at Katsina Airport and handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS).

The signing ceremony in Abuja was attended by key government officials, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. Tunji-Ojo described the act as a milestone in the government's ongoing reforms, emphasizing its role in bolstering inter-agency collaboration and the integrity of the National Identification Number (NIN) system. He highlighted the system's effectiveness in combating terrorism, identity theft, and financial crimes.

Tunji-Ojo revealed that the integration of the NIMC database with other government identity platforms has already led to tangible security gains. He cited the recent arrest of seven suspected commanders from Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) at Katsina Airport as they returned from the Hajj pilgrimage. "This was possible because the NIMC database is now connected with the immigration database and also interfaces with Interpol’s systems on a 24-hour basis," he stated.

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This was possible because the NIMC database is now connected with the immigration database and also interfaces with Interpol’s systems on a 24-hour basis.

Before the reforms, Nigeria's identity management systems operated in silos, hindering effective verification. Tunji-Ojo noted that obtaining a Nigerian passport now requires verification through the NIMC database. Senate President Akpabio and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu also lauded the legislation, viewing it as a crucial part of the administration's reform agenda and a boost to public trust in the nation's identity management framework.

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When President Tinubu assumed office, we had disconnected identity management systems. Today, you cannot obtain a Nigerian passport without verification through the NIMC database.