The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has reaffirmed its commitment to building a robust and inclusive Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) ecosystem aimed at strengthening governance, improving public service delivery, enhancing national security, and accelerating socio-economic development across the country.
NIMC's Strategic Role in DPI
Speaking at a digital conference themed "Building Africa's Digital Foundations Together" in Abuja, NIMC Director General and Chief Executive Officer, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, represented by the Head of Infrastructure Technology and Identity Databases (IT/IDD), Sulaiman Falade, stated that NIMC is driving Nigeria's Digital Public Infrastructure through strategic reforms, institutional collaboration, and the deployment of secure digital identity systems that support efficient service delivery for citizens and residents.
She emphasized that central to the DPI transformation is the National Identification Number (NIN), which has become a critical enabler for digital authentication, identity verification, and access to government and private sector services. The NIN serves as a foundational element for secure digital transactions and identity management across multiple sectors.
Presidential Directive and Implementation
"In line with the Presidential Directive issued on April 5, 2024, Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have been mandated to ensure the effective use of the NIN in driving policies related to data capture, identity verification, and biometric authentication across all digital services. NIMC has put in place structures to ensure effective implementation," she added.
Coker-Odusote, an engineer, further reinforced the Federal Government's vision of establishing a unified, secure, and interoperable digital identity ecosystem that supports transparency, accountability, and seamless access to services. This vision aligns with broader national development goals and digital transformation initiatives.
Enhancing Trust and Security
The Director General further stated that as part of Nigeria's broader DPI framework, the NIMC continues to play a leading role in enabling digital governance and supporting national development objectives. Through the integration of digital identity systems and the deployment of the National Public Key Infrastructure (nPKI), Nigeria is strengthening trust in digital transactions, protecting citizens' data, and promoting secure online interactions.
She encouraged stakeholders across the public and private sectors to continue supporting the implementation of Nigeria's digital identity ecosystem and related initiatives designed to improve service delivery outcomes for all Nigerians. The NIMC remains committed to leveraging technology, innovation, and secure digital systems to build a more connected, efficient, and resilient nation.
The deployment of DPI is expected to enhance national security by enabling more accurate identity verification and reducing fraud. It will also improve access to government services, making them more efficient and user-friendly for citizens. The NIMC's efforts are part of a broader strategy to digitize government operations and promote inclusive growth.
