The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) is set to revolutionize identity management in Nigeria with the rollout of a new multipurpose national identity card. The announcement was made through the official X (formerly Twitter) handle of Nigerian Stories, sparking nationwide interest in this groundbreaking initiative.
According to the Director-General of NIMC, the forthcoming national ID card will integrate advanced features that extend beyond traditional identification. The multipurpose card is expected to serve as a one-stop solution for a variety of functions, including access to government services, financial transactions, and even travel documentation.
“This new card will redefine the concept of national identity in Nigeria,” the DG stated. “It’s not just an ID card—it’s a gateway to seamless service delivery and a secure identity system for every Nigerian.”
The multipurpose ID card aligns with the federal government’s drive for a digital economy and improved governance through technology. With embedded biometric data and enhanced security features, the card aims to curb identity fraud, simplify access to public and private sector services, and foster financial inclusion for millions of Nigerians.
Experts have lauded the initiative as a bold step toward achieving the long-awaited integration of identity management in Nigeria. The new ID card will link seamlessly with other databases, including the Bank Verification Number (BVN) and National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), ensuring a unified and efficient data management system.
The NIMC DG emphasized that the rollout will be gradual, with efforts to ensure that every citizen, including those in remote areas, will have access to the new card. He also reassured Nigerians that existing National Identification Numbers (NINs) will remain valid and automatically integrate into the new system.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing excitement over the card’s potential benefits, while others raised concerns about the efficiency and transparency of the distribution process. Critics have also called for clarity on the cost implications for citizens and how the project will address the country’s existing challenges in ID card issuance.
As Nigeria prepares for the rollout of this innovative multipurpose national ID card, the spotlight remains on NIMC to deliver on its promises. If executed effectively, this project could mark a turning point in the country’s journey toward a digital economy, fostering trust, inclusivity, and improved governance.
Stay tuned for updates as the NIMC provides more details about this transformative initiative.
PIONEER NEWS 