FG Initiates Harmonization Of National Identity Cards

The Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has announced plans to commence discussions among key stakeholders in the national identity system. The objective is to establish a harmonized approach to streamline and enhance service delivery across various identity systems in the country.

The discussions will include critical stakeholders such as the INEC, banks, FRSC, NPC, Immigration, NCC, and others. The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), as a statutory body empowered by law, will play a central role in achieving this goal in the near future.

This announcement was made during the 5th Identity Day commemoration event held at ICC, Abuja, with the theme: “Identity As Catalyst for Nigeria’s Development.” The event marked the first under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and since the transfer of NIMC to the Ministry of Interior.

Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo emphasized the crucial role of identity management in mitigating and controlling crime while promoting national development. He highlighted the importance of identity in everyday life, making it a focal point of the annual Identity Day celebration.

Reflecting on the progress in achieving digital identity inclusion for all citizens and legal residents, the minister stressed the need for future solutions to improve the lives of Nigerians. He emphasized that a secure and verifiable identity is essential in the modern digital age, enabling access to various services and online platforms.

With over 100 million National Identification Numbers in the National Identity Database, NIMC, along with other stakeholders, is poised to facilitate this goal. The integration of NIMC with sister agencies within the Ministry of Interior will enhance public access to services like passport acquisition and renewal, border security, handling of insecurity, protection of national assets, rehabilitation of offenders, and emergency response.

The minister called on all stakeholders to collaborate in implementing positive policies related to national identity, especially concerning government social safety nets and financial inclusion programs.

Acting Director General/CEO of NIMC, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, emphasized the top priority of harmonizing various identity systems during her tenure. She expressed gratitude for President Tinubu’s faith in NIMC’s achievements and its future endeavors.

Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote highlighted the significance of World Identity Day, emphasizing that identity is more than a card or number; it symbolizes existence, entitlements, and societal integration. It provides access to essential services and opportunities for personal and economic growth, making it a fundamental right.

She affirmed NIMC’s commitment to providing every citizen and legal resident with a digital primary identity, ensuring universal access to a trusted identity. Embracing digital transformation while safeguarding privacy and data protection remains a priority for NIMC.

In conclusion, NIMC is dedicated to collaborating with global partners to innovate and ensure the integrity and security of identity systems in the face of emerging technologies and evolving threats.