By Aliu Akeem
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has reported a notable growth in National Identification Number (NIN) registrations, reaching 110 million, up from 107.34 million in May 2024. Director-General Abisoye Coker-Odusote shared this update at the National Day of Identity event, emphasizing the importance of digital public infrastructure in facilitating access to vital services.
NIMC stands for National Identity Management Commission. It is a Nigerian government agency responsible for the creation, management, and maintenance of a national identity database and the issuance of National Identification Numbers (NIN) to citizens and legal residents.
The NIMC was established in 2007 to
- Create a national identity database
- Issue unique identification numbers (NIN) to individuals
- Manage and maintain the database
- Provide identity verification and authentication services
The NIMC’s primary goal is to provide a secure and reliable means of identity verification, which can be used to access various government services, financial transactions, and other applications.
Some of the key functions of NIMC include:
- National Identity Number (NIN) issuance
- Identity verification and authentication
- Biometric data capture and storage
- National identity database management
- Identity card issuance (optional)
The NIMC plays a crucial role in promoting digital identity, enhancing security, and facilitating access to essential services in Nigeria.
Nigeria’s economic development is now heavily reliant on the role of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), which serves as a gateway for citizens to access essential services such as social welfare, healthcare, education, and financial inclusion,” she emphasized. “At the helm of this transformation is NIMC, which has achieved a milestone of enrolling over 110 million Nigerians in the National Identification Number (NIN) program, demonstrating its significance in this endeavor.”The establishment of a robust foundational identity through NIN enables seamless integration of data exchange and payment systems, driving the effective development and adoption of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI),” the NIMC DG noted. “Furthermore, this digital infrastructure has empowered the government and financial institutions to efficiently implement digital payments, digital currencies, secure digital identities, and streamlined digital processes.”
The Director-General highlighted the success of the Student Loan Initiative, which has enabled 257 institutions to provide loans to 332,715 students, with over 18,000 students already receiving payments. This initiative demonstrates how Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) can break down financial barriers to education. She emphasized that collaborations with government agencies, private sector players, and telecom companies have been instrumental in linking NINs and phone numbers, harmonizing NINs and Bank Verification Numbers for digital payments, and driving digital transformation.
