FG pushes full lmplementation of new NIMC Act, adopts NIN as sole National Identity

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the full implementation of the National Identity Management Commission, NIMC, Act 2026, a move aimed at making the National Identification Number (NIN) Nigeria’s single recognised means of identification.

Speaking during a strategic meeting with NIMC Director-General, Dr Abisoye Odusote, in Abuja on Monday, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu described the new legislation as a major reform that will strengthen Nigeria’s digital identity system, improve governance, and support evidence based policymaking.

Bagudu noted that it provides a stronger legal framework for a secure, trusted and inclusive national identity system. 

He stressed that the success of the law would depend on effective implementation and its ability to deliver tangible benefits to citizens.

The minister called for greater collaboration among federal, state and local governments to eliminate multiple identity databases and build confidence in the country’s identity management framework.

He maintained that the NIN should become the nation’s universally accepted means of identification to improve public service delivery and governance.

According to him, “a comprehensive national identity database would provide accurate demographic and socio-economic data needed for development planning, efficient resource allocation and service delivery at all levels of government”.

He also emphasised the importance of data privacy, cybersecurity and stronger safeguards as Nigeria expands its digital identity ecosystem.

Earlier, NIMC Director General Abisoye Odusote explained that the new Act repeals the 2007 legislation, establishes the NIN as the foundational identifier under the “one person, one identity” policy, and introduces stronger data protection and digital infrastructure provisions.