'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - In a groundbreaking year under the leadership of Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has achieved unprecedented milestones, including the enrolment of 115 million Nigerians into the National Identification Number (NIN) system.
The achievement, coupled with the clearance of a two-year backlog of payments to Front-End Partners (FEPs), was highlighted during a two-day roundtable with online newspaper publishers in Abuja today.
Represented by the Director of ICT/Identity Database, Engr. Lanre Yusuf, Coker-Odusote described her tenure as a transformative era for Nigeria’s digital identity management. She attributed the successes to strategic reforms, enhanced infrastructure, and the integration of cutting-edge technology, positioning NIMC as a key player in the country’s digital transformation.
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| Engr. Lanre Yusuf, Director of ICT/Identity Database |
The enrolment surge to 115 million was fueled by significant investments in infrastructure. NIMC deployed over 800 mobile enrolment devices and established territorial offices nationwide, drastically reducing registration wait times. The commission also expanded the capacity of the National Identity Database to host 250 million identities, laying a foundation for further growth.
“We have modernized our infrastructure and cleared operational bottlenecks to deliver effective services,” Coker-Odusote said. “These measures align with our vision to create a robust and inclusive identity system accessible to all Nigerians.”
Under her leadership, NIMC has strengthened inter-agency collaboration by integrating the NIN with key institutions such as the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). These partnerships ensure seamless identity verification across sectors.
Technological advancements, including an upgraded NIMS Middleware and a soon-to-be-launched NIN authentication app, have enhanced data security and granted citizens greater control over their personal information. Coker-Odusote noted plans to ensure 99% uptime for verification services, making NIN a reliable tool for identity authentication nationwide.
One of the administration’s standout initiatives is the reactivation of the General Multipurpose Card (GMPC). The GMPC, equipped with advanced applets, facilitates secure payments and provides multi-functional services. Its reintroduction aims to enhance financial inclusion and streamline access to essential services for Nigerians both locally and internationally.
NIMC’s efforts to integrate NIN into national initiatives have yielded significant benefits. Verified NINs have been used to distribute resources transparently, enabling over 3 million farmers and 800,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to access grants and loans under various government programs.
Additionally, the NIN is now central to SIM card registration, digital health initiatives, and youth development projects, underscoring its role in fostering inclusive governance and bolstering national security.
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| Martins Odiete, the Chairman, Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE) |
As part of its outreach strategy, NIMC is strengthening its collaboration with online media to amplify public awareness of its initiatives. The Chairman of the Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE), Mr. Martins Odiete, commended the commission’s proactive engagement with online publishers, describing it as a model for public policy communication.
“Online platforms are crucial for reaching the public in today’s digital age,” Odiete stated. “NIMC has found a reliable ally in ACOE, and this partnership will educate citizens about the commission’s milestones and foster a positive perception of its efforts.”
Looking forward, Coker-Odusote revealed plans to adopt artificial intelligence for identity verification, further expand enrolment centres, and deepen the integration of NIN across sectors. She also reaffirmed her commitment to transparency and zero tolerance for corruption, ensuring NIMC’s operations align with global best practices.
The DG expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support and to the Nigeria Digital ID4D Project for its role in driving NIMC’s vision.
In her closing remarks, she reiterated NIMC’s dedication to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 16.9), which seeks to provide legal identity for all by 2030. “We will not rest until every Nigerian is part of our national identity database,” she declared.
This milestone year marks a significant leap forward for NIMC, positioning it as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s digital economy and a leader in inclusive identity management.
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