NATIONAL POLICY AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR AN IDENTITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR NIGERIA
Framework · Technology
A Framework sets out the vision and principles for a national identity management system. It targets the National Identity Management Commission, government agencies, private institutions, and all citizens. This establishes a reliable system to support public services and the digital economy.
NATIONAL POLICY AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR AN IDENTITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR NIGERIA
What Is This Policy?
Nigeria's overarching policy document setting out the vision, objectives, institutional roles, and operational principles for a comprehensive national identity management system.
Who Does It Target?
NIMC as the lead identity agency All government agencies engaged in identity management Private sector institutions relying on identity data All Nigerian citizens and residents
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
Establish a single, reliable, and inclusive national identity system that enables every Nigerian to be uniquely identified, supports efficient public service delivery, and underpins the digital economy.
Key Features
Single Identity Principle: Every Nigerian will have one unique identity anchored on the NIN, eliminating duplication. Institutional Roles: Defines NIMC's lead role and the responsibilities of related agencies including INEC, CAC, FIRS, and immigration. Inclusivity: Commits to reaching all Nigerians including rural, elderly, and marginalised populations. Data Governance: Establishes principles for data sharing, privacy, and security across the identity ecosystem.
Current Status
Rollout Stage: Active Coverage: Nationwide identity management ecosystem Beneficiaries: All Nigerians and residents; government and private sector identity relying parties Funding: Federal Government; World Bank; DFID
How to Access
No direct application required by citizens; NIN enrolment is the primary citizen action Institutions: engage NIMC for integration into the identity ecosystem Application method: Enrol at NIMC for NIN. Institutions: https://www.nimc.gov.ng
Important Terms
The policy underpins but does not replace the NIMC Act and associated regulations Implementation is phased and ongoing Digital identity infrastructure is governed by this policy alongside Nigeria's data protection laws
Official Resources
Website: https://www.nimc.gov.ng Contact: National Identity Management Commission (NIMC)
Legal Framework
Operates under the National Identity Management Commission Act 2007, the National Information Technology Development Agency Act 2007, the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act 2015, the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, and the Birth, Deaths and Other Events (Compulsory Registration) Act 2011.