By Milcah Tanimu
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has assured Nigerians of a streamlined National Identification Number (NIN) registration process across the nation and abroad.
Mrs. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, the Acting Director-General of the commission, made this pledge in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja.
She emphasized that NIN registration would remain free for all eligible citizens and reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to ensuring accessibility for all Nigerians in alignment with global best practices.
Coker-Odusote also emphasized the importance of establishing a comprehensive national identity system to simplify government services and improve service delivery.
According to her, a unified identity system enables citizens to receive entitled services more efficiently.
Coker-Odusote stated, “NIMC will strengthen the operation and regulation of all matters related to national identity, which encompasses services such as NIN enrollment and issuance, national e-ID card issuance, identity verification, as well as data harmonization and authentication.
“In the digital age, integrated identity is the backbone of e-governance initiatives. It provides an enabling environment for key government programs of social safety nets, financial inclusion, as well as for companies that want to provide innovative products and services to people.
“An integrated identity system will strengthen the government’s fiscal management, promote good governance and transparency through inclusivity and social equality. It ensures that marginalized and vulnerable populations are not excluded from government services.”
She acknowledged the challenges faced by millions of Nigerians during NIN enrollment and pledged to fully address and resolve issues, including long processing times and administrative errors.
Coker-Odusote called for the understanding and support of stakeholders within Nigeria’s digital identity sector, emphasizing the commission’s commitment to expediting the issuance of NINs and providing other essential services to the public.
She reiterated NIMC’s dedication to supporting the policy direction of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which aims to lift more Nigerians out of poverty, improve food security, drive economic growth, and enhance security by strengthening NIN issuance.