The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), is set to introduce an enhanced National Identity card that will feature payment capabilities and social service integration. This innovative card is being developed in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Inter-bank Settlement System (NIBSS), and will be powered by AfriGO, the nation’s domestic card scheme.
According to Kayode Adegoke, the Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC, the new national ID card will incorporate verifiable National Identity features, as mandated by the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007. This act empowers the commission to enroll and issue a general multipurpose card to Nigerian citizens and legal residents.
The primary objective of this initiative is to meet the growing demand for physical identification, enabling cardholders to verify their identity and access both government and private social services. By promoting financial inclusion and empowering citizens, the national ID card aims to foster increased participation in nation-building endeavors.
Eligibility for the card will be restricted to registered citizens and legal residents who possess a National Identification Number (NIN). NIMC assures that the card will be produced in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, positioning it as the country’s default national identity card.
In addition to its identification function, the card will also serve as a debit or prepaid card, allowing cardholders to link it to their bank accounts of choice. This feature is expected to provide access to multiple government intervention programs, particularly for those who have been financially excluded from social and financial services.
The national ID card will incorporate several advanced features, including a machine-readable zone conforming to ICAO standards for e-passport information, an identity card issue date and document number adhering to ICAO standards, as well as provisions for travel, health insurance, microloans, agriculture, food stamps, transport, and energy subsidies.
In line with data protection regulations and public interest, NIMC has reiterated its commitment to protecting cardholders’ personal data and ensuring compliance with international standards on data security protocols. The commission has assured that appropriate security features will be implemented to safeguard the confidentiality and safety of users’ information.
This initiative represents a significant step towards modernizing Nigeria’s national identification system, enhancing financial inclusion, and streamlining access to social services. By integrating payment capabilities and social service features, the enhanced national ID card aims to provide a comprehensive solution for citizens and legal residents, fostering greater participation in the nation’s development efforts.