The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to fully implementing the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026, a major reform designed to establish the National Identification Number (NIN) as Nigeria’s single official means of identification.
The move forms part of broader efforts to strengthen the country’s digital identity system, improve governance and enhance public service delivery.
Government Backs Unified Identity System
Speaking during a strategic meeting with the Director-General of the National Identity Management Commission, Dr. Abisoye Odusote, in Abuja, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, described the legislation as a significant milestone for Nigeria’s identity management framework.
According to the minister, the new law provides a stronger legal foundation for building a secure, inclusive and reliable national identity system capable of supporting national development.
He stressed that effective implementation would be crucial to ensuring the legislation delivers practical benefits for citizens.
NIN to Become Primary Means of Identification
Bagudu said the Federal Government intends to make the National Identification Number the country’s universally accepted identity credential.
He explained that adopting a single identity system would reduce duplication across government databases while improving efficiency in public administration.
The minister also urged closer collaboration among federal, state and local government institutions to ensure seamless implementation of the policy.
Better Planning Through Reliable Data
According to Bagudu, a comprehensive national identity database will provide government with more accurate demographic and socio-economic information needed for national planning.
He said reliable identity data would support better resource allocation, improve policy formulation and strengthen the delivery of government services nationwide.
The minister also emphasised the importance of protecting citizens’ personal information through stronger data privacy measures and enhanced cybersecurity.
New Law Replaces 2007 Act
Earlier, NIMC Director-General Dr. Abisoye Odusote explained that the new legislation repeals the National Identity Management Commission Act of 2007.
She said the updated law formally establishes the National Identification Number as the country’s foundational identity under the “One Person, One Identity” policy.
Odusote added that the Act introduces stronger provisions for digital identity management, data protection and modern identity infrastructure as Nigeria continues expanding its digital economy.
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