Over 123m Nigerians enrolled in NIMC database - DG
By Denis Matthew, Abuja
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has successfully enrolled over 123 million Nigerians in its national identification database, Director-General Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote announced at the National Day of Identity 2025 celebration in Abuja.
Speaking on the theme "PKI: Backbone to Digital Public Infrastructure," she highlighted Nigeria's status as the first African nation to officially recognize Identity Day, a significant step toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16.9 to provide legal identity for all.
Coker-Odusote explained that NIMC is well on its way to achieving global acclaim by expanding its database and enhancing inclusivity through innovative technology, particularly the integration of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI).
PKI ensures the security, privacy, and accessibility of personal data, which is crucial for building a functional digital economy. This technology directly supports SDG 16.9 by promoting inclusion, protecting identities, and empowering individuals to access essential services.
The Director-General noted that the number of enrollments represents a 49% reduction in waiting times, a result of integrating cutting-edge technology and forming strategic partnerships.
NIMC has collaborated with the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to link the National Identification Number (NIN) with birth registrations, working towards the goal of registering every Nigerian from birth.
Additionally, partnerships with the Nigeria Correctional Service have led to the enrollment of over 75% of inmates, while collaboration with the Nigerian Immigration Service has improved diaspora enrollments by 52%.
NIMC is also leveraging its partnerships with over 50 organizations to expand its reach. Agencies like INEC, NASSCO, NYSC, and the National Population Commission (NPC) now serve as Front-End Operators (FEPs), making the enrollment process more accessible nationwide.
Despite the significant progress, Coker-Odusote acknowledged persistent challenges. The male-to-female registration ratio still needs improvement, and about 40% of children under five remain unregistered at birth due to sociocultural barriers and infrastructural deficiencies.
She affirmed NIMC's commitment to overcoming these hurdles through targeted publicity campaigns to achieve 95% inclusion for Nigerians within the next year.
Addressing concerns about data security, the DG emphasized NIMC's unwavering commitment to protecting citizens' identities.
She debunked rumors of a database breach, stating that attempts to infiltrate the system have failed and that the database remains secure.
She noted that such misinformation, combined with global misconceptions about Nigerian cybercrime, has necessitated a strong response.
In light of this, NIMC has formed a robust partnership with the Nigeria Police Force, National Cybercrime Centre to combat fraud and ensure data protection within the PKI system.