The Senate has moved to bolster the regulatory responsibilities of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) with the aim of fortifying Nigeria’s identity infrastructure.
During its session on Tuesday, the Senate passed a bill for a second reading, championed by Sen. Barau Jibrin, Deputy President of the Senate.
The proposed legislation seeks to expand the eligibility criteria for National Identification Number (NIN) registration, ensuring inclusivity for all residents of Nigeria.
Sen. Jibrin highlighted the bill’s objectives, emphasizing that it aims to repeal the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2007 and establish a robust National Identity Database.
“This bill aims to enhance data protection measures to safeguard individuals’ privacy and build citizens’ trust in the handling of their information,”
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Sen. Jibrin stated during his lead debate. He emphasized the importance of strengthening NIMC’s administrative enforcement powers to ensure timely compliance with ID registration requirements, thereby streamlining the registration process and enhancing the reliability of Nigeria’s ID system.
The bill also proposes replacing criminal penalties for non-use of NIN with administrative measures to encourage compliance, aiming to alleviate legal burdens on individuals.
Additionally, it aims to empower NIMC to effectively oversee and regulate the Nigeria ID System, promoting adherence to standards and fostering public confidence in its integrity.
Moreover, the legislation seeks to harmonize existing identity systems across various government agencies to promote interoperability and coherence, ultimately aiming to enhance inclusivity, accessibility, and unlock substantial economic and security benefits for the nation.
Once enacted, the bill is expected to usher in a new era of improved identity management in Nigeria, aligning with global best practices and meeting the evolving needs of the country’s population.
