Following the approval of the immediate implementation of a strategic roadmap for digital identity ecosystem in Nigeria, the government may start enforcing the mandatory use of National Idenitification Number by all Nigerians.
The enforcement is likely to begin on January 1, 2019.
Director-General of the National Identity Management Commission, NIMC, Aliyu Aziz, said the approval of the roadmap was in line with the Federal Government’s efforts to reposition the country’s status in the global economy.
The digital identity ecosystem allows for the enrolment of Nigerians and legal residents into the national identity database.
This is based on the existing capabilities and infrastructure of distinct government agencies and private sector organizations.
In particular, the digital identity ecosystem will enable the government to issue digital identity which will bring about a credible identity management system.
According to NIMC, as a result of the approval given for the immediate implementation of a strategic roadmap for digital identity ecosystem, the full implementation of the provisions of the NIMC Act 23, 2007 would be enhanced.
Aziz said that was because of the provision of the Act, which include the enforcement of the mandatory use of the NIN by January 1, 2019, and the application of appropriate sanctions and penalties on defaulters as provided under Section 28 of the NIMC Act and Regulations.
Aziz said the implementation of the roadmap will enable the country achieve the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan, ERGP.
