The Nigerian government has announced plans to introduce a comprehensive national identification system, encompassing payment integrations and social service delivery functions. The revelation came through a statement from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), as disclosed by Kayode Adegoke, the commission’s corporate communication lead.
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The new identification system, powered by AfriGo, a national card scheme established by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), aims to facilitate domestic transactions and social interventions. Collaborating with the NIMC and the central bank for this initiative is the Nigerian Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS).
This new identification system includes a bank-enabled national ID, a social intervention card, and an optional ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card. However, many Nigerians are skeptical about the complexity and redundancy of the system.
Critics argue that the proliferation of identification schemes in Nigeria has led to confusion and inconvenience for citizens. Social media reactions reflect widespread discontent, with many expressing frustration over what they perceive as unnecessary bureaucracy and potential avenues for corruption.
Despite substantial government funding allocated to the NIMC for NIN registration equipment in recent years, challenges persist, including meeting registration deadlines and linking identification numbers with SIM cards. Moreover, concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of the new system in addressing security threats like insurgency and kidnapping.
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