The Federal Government, in partnership with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), is set to introduce an upgraded National Identity card with advanced payment capabilities and social service features.
This collaboration, involving the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigeria Inter-bank Settlement System, will utilize AfriGO, a national domestic card scheme, to power the new card.
Kayode Adegoke, the Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC, made the announcement in a statement on Friday.
NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007 requires the enhanced national ID card, which includes verifiable national identity features. This act mandates that all lawful residents and citizens of Nigeria be enrolled and issued with a comprehensive multipurpose card.
The objective of this initiative is to address the increasing need for physical identification, enabling cardholders to easily verify their identity and gain access to various government and private social services.
The enhanced national ID card aims to promote financial inclusion, empower citizens, and encourage greater participation in nation-building efforts.
According to the NIMC, only registered citizens and legal residents with a National Identification Number (NIN) will be eligible to apply for the card.
In a statement, NIMC emphasized that the card, produced in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, will serve as the default national identity card for the country.
Additionally, cardholders will have the option to link their cards to their preferred bank accounts, allowing them to utilize the card as a debit or prepaid card.
This functionality will enable eligible individuals, particularly those who are financially excluded from social and financial services, to access multiple government intervention programs.
NIMC remains dedicated to safeguarding the personal data of cardholders and ensuring compliance with international data security protocols in line with data protection regulations and the public interest. The enhanced national ID card will incorporate security features to protect the confidentiality and safety of users’ information.
The card will also include a machine-readable zone in accordance with ICAO standards for e-passport information, identity card issue date, document number, and other pertinent details. Additionally, it will provide information on travel, health insurance, microloans, agriculture, food stamps, transport, energy subsidies, and more.
The introduction of the enhanced national identity card marks a significant step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to enhance identification systems, promote financial inclusion, and empower its citizens. With its multifunctional capabilities, the card is expected to become a valuable tool for Nigerians and legal residents alike.
