\n\nPresident Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to ensure that every Nigerian is enrolled in the country’s National Identity Database before the end of 2026.
The directive is part of the Federal Government’s renewed push to strengthen Nigeria’s digital identity system, improve public service delivery, and enhance national security. According to the Presidency, expanding the National Identification Number (NIN) database will help government agencies verify identities more efficiently, reduce fraud, improve planning, and make it easier for citizens to access social services and government interventions.
The administration believes a comprehensive identity database will support sectors such as banking, healthcare, telecommunications, taxation, education, and social welfare by ensuring that every citizen has a unique and verifiable identity.
NIMC has been tasked with accelerating enrollment across all states, including rural and underserved communities, through expanded registration centres and partnerships with relevant agencies. Millions of Nigerians have already obtained their NIN, but the government says more work is needed to achieve universal coverage.
Officials say the initiative is expected to improve transparency in governance, strengthen digital public infrastructure, and make government programmes more efficient and accountable. The move also aligns with Nigeria’s broader digital transformation agenda and efforts to modernize public administration.
