THE Federal Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the full implementation of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026, hailing the legislation as a transformative milestone for the nation’s digital infrastructure.
Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, made the pledge during a strategic engagement with the NIMC Director-General, Dr Abisoye Odusote, in Abuja on Monday. He described the new law as the bedrock for a trusted, secure, and inclusive identity system that will accelerate national planning and development.
Commending the NIMC leadership for securing the passage of the landmark legislation after years of sustained effort, Senator Bagudu stressed that the law’s true success hinges on effective execution and the tangible benefits it delivers to ordinary Nigerians.
“We must ensure this translates into improved service delivery,” the Minister stated, calling for stronger collaboration across federal, state, and local governments to build public confidence and eliminate the duplication of identity databases.
Senator Bagudu emphasised that the National Identification Number (NIN) must become the nation’s single, universally accepted identity standard, supporting efficient governance. He noted that a comprehensive database would significantly enhance evidence-based policymaking, resource allocation, and public service delivery by providing accurate demographic data down to the ward level.
Recognising the rapid advancement of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, the Minister urged NIMC to remain proactive in developing robust policies for data governance, privacy protection, and cybersecurity to ensure the framework remains resilient and future-ready.
The Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, also congratulated the Commission on the enactment, calling it a significant achievement after nearly two decades of legislative reform.
Presenting the new Act, Dr Odusote explained that it repeals the 2007 legislation, modernises the NIN as the foundational identifier under the “one person, one identity” policy, establishes NIMC as the root certificate authority for digital infrastructure, and introduces strict data protection rules. Key highlights include the elevated status of the NIN, robust data protection provisions, and the introduction of a general multi-purpose card.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu gave his assent to the Act on 26 June 2026.
Speaking earlier on behalf of the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr Joseph Ikpeamaeze reaffirmed the government’s dedication to implementing the new law through sustained stakeholder collaboration. He noted that a credible identity system is fundamental to effective resource allocation, social protection, and monitoring national development outcomes.
“We will continue to work closely with NIMC and partner institutions to ensure the successful implementation of the Act and achieve our broader national development objectives,” Mr Ikpeamaeze assured.
