President Bola Tinubu

The Federal Government of Nigeria has assured of its total support towards building a comprehensive and efficient digital identity management system in line with its plans to ensure inclusive growth across the country. The government has also urged relevant stakeholders to support the National Identity Management Commission NIMC, which in association with both local and foreign partners is currently spearheading the country’s digital identity management project both for citizens and all legal residents.

President Bola Tinubu, who gave the assurance at the National Day of Identity event in Abuja, noted that verifiable proof of identity remains a fundamental right of citizens and legitimate resident as well as an essential requirement for accessing critical services across the country.

Represented at the event by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation SGF, George Akume with the theme: “Digital Public Infrastructure: Enabling Access to Services”, the President also observed that identity verification in this modern digital era is not just about convenience but a key factor driving Nigeria’s socioeconomic development.

“Digital Public Infrastructure DPI is the backbone of service access; from healthcare and education to financial inclusion and social welfare. A strong, efficient digital identity system is vital for ensuring that government programmes, such as farmer incentives, student loans, and housing initiatives, reach the intended recipients”, the President also said.

Tinubu also declared that the success of his administration’s eight-point agenda, which include food security, poverty eradication, job creation, and improved security is directly hinged on the success of the digital identity system project. He further assured that the DPI would streamline service delivery, reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies, and foster transparency in governance.

Meanwhile, Director General/CEO, NIMC, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, who also spoke at the event, highlighted the progress made under the Commission’s strategic plan, insisting that digital identity is crucial to Nigeria’s economic transformation.

The NIMC boss said: “The DPI connects citizens to essential services such as social welfare, healthcare, and financial inclusion. Currently, over 110 million Nigerians are now enrolled with NIN, which sets the foundation for broader digital infrastructure, including data exchange and payment systems.

“The success of the Student Loan Initiative, which has registered 332,715 students across 257 institutions and disbursed payments to over 18,000 students, showcases how DPI can break down financial barriers to education”.

Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, also while speaking at the event, praised the milestone already achieved by NIMC. He noted that the digital identity system is critical for effective socio-economic planning and the country’s financial development.

“This system will allow more Nigerians to benefit from government programs and help tackle national challenges.

“As Nigeria continues to expand its digital infrastructure, the integration of digital identity into public services is expected to enhance transparency, foster economic growth, and ensure greater social inclusion across the nation”, the Minister assured.