The Federal Government of Nigeria is preparing to launch an identification card linked to various payment methods. The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) is leading this effort to offer social and financial services. Collaborating with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS), they will use the Africa Industrial Growth Enhancement Organization (AfriGo) card scheme to facilitate transactions. The CBN introduced AfriGo earlier last year to improve financial access and protect data.
However, the new ID card recently introduced by the NIMC serves many purposes. It simplifies the verification of one’s identity while granting simpler access to governmental and private social services. It aims to enhance financial inclusion by reaching out to disadvantaged Nigerians, empowering citizens, and promoting increased participation in national development projects. The NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007 mandates the NIMC to register Nigerian citizens and legal residents and provide them with a General Multipurpose Card (GMPC), which aligns with this new initiative.
Individual ID cards can be linked to bank accounts for debit/prepaid use.
In addition, the new card introduced by the commission is only available to Nigerian citizens and legal residents registered with the National Identification Number (NIN). This card will meet the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and function as Nigeria’s primary form of identification. The program aims to broaden the reach of government assistance programs to individuals currently underserved by social and financial services. Individuals can link these new identification cards to their personal bank accounts and utilise them as either debit or prepaid cards.
Many Nigerians show their displeasure with the recent changes, pointing out the difficult and time-consuming process of getting the NIN. They are particularly frustrated with the extended wait times and long lines, a common feature of the current system. To address the concerns raised, the NIMC has assured that registered citizens and legal residents can obtain the new card through various channels, such as online platforms, commercial banks, participating agencies, program agents, as well as the NIMC offices nationwide.
A steering committee will monitor Nigeria’s Digital ID4D Project.
Also, the federal government established the Nigeria Digital Identification for Development Project Ecosystem Steering Committee in March 2024 to oversee the Nigeria Digital ID4D Project. This initiative aims to provide every Nigerian with a secure digital identity, enhancing service delivery and governance. By enabling verifiable identities, the project will facilitate citizens’ access to essential services and opportunities, ultimately promoting growth in the digital economy. The Steering Committee is crucial in guiding the project towards its goals and ensuring its successful implementation.
As the government prepares to launch payment-integrated ID cards to enhance services, there is a strong emphasis on improving financial inclusion and expanding access to social and financial services. The collaboration between the NIMC, CBN, and NIBSS leverages the AfriGo card scheme’s focus on a strategic approach to streamlining transactions and providing a seamless experience for cardholders. By linking identification with payment capabilities, the new ID cards aim to simplify identity verification and empower Nigerians with increased financial access and security in their transactions.
Related Article: House of Rep urge production of NIN cards
Lastly, introducing the new ID card aligns with the broader goal of promoting national development and empowering citizens through improved service delivery. Focusing on reaching disadvantaged populations and enhancing participation in government initiatives, it seeks to bridge gaps in Nigeria’s access to social and financial services. By utilising international standards for identification and integration with existing bank accounts, the new cards are poised to play a pivotal role in advancing financial inclusion and economic growth in the country.
Related Link
NIMC: Website
