The Federal Government, in collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), is set to introduce an upgraded national identity card equipped with payment functionality, catering to various social and financial needs.
Kayode Adegoke, the Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC, said the new national ID card will integrate verifiable National Identity features, as mandated by the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007.
This legislation empowers NIMC to enroll and issue a General Multipurpose card (GMPC) to Nigerians and legal residents.
Collaborative Effort
- The innovative card is a result of collaboration between NIMC, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and the Nigeria Inter-bank Settlement System (NIBSS). It will be powered by AfriGO, a national domestic card scheme.
- The initiative aligns with the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, empowering NIMC to enroll and issue a General Multipurpose card (GMPC) to Nigerians and legal residents, layered with verifiable national identity features.
Eligibility and Purpose
Eligibility Criteria:
- “Only registered citizens and legal residents with the National Identification Number (NIN) will be eligible to request the card.
- “The card, which will be produced according to ICAO standards, is positioned as the country’s default national identity card. In addition to this functionality, cardholders will also be able to use the cards as debit or prepaid cards by linking same to bank accounts of their choice.
- The card shall enable eligible persons especially those financially excluded from social and financial services have access to multiple government intervention programs,” NIMC stated.
Purpose:
- The card aims to meet the demand for physical identification, enabling cardholders to prove their identity and access both government and private social services.
- Additionally, it seeks to promote financial inclusion, empower citizens, and encourage participation in nation-building initiatives.
Key Features
- ICAO Standards Compliance: The card will adhere to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, featuring a Machine-readable Zone (MRZ) for e-passport information, identity card issue date, and document number.
- Financial Integration: In addition to identification features, the card can function as a debit or prepaid card, linked to the cardholder’s bank account, facilitating financial transactions and inclusion.
- Data Protection and Security: NIMC emphasizes its commitment to protecting cardholders’ personal data, ensuring compliance with international standards on data security protocols. Security features will safeguard user information and confidentiality.
- Versatile Usage: The card will support various government intervention programs, including travel, health insurance, microloans, agriculture, food stamps, transport, and energy subsidies, enhancing access to essential services.
- Offline Capability: Offline capability enables transactions in areas with limited network coverage or zero infrastructure connectivity, ensuring accessibility in diverse settings.
How To Get The Card
- Online and Offline Availability: Registered citizens and legal residents can request the card online, through commercial banks, participating agencies or agents, and NIMC offices nationwide.
In conclusion, the introduction of the national identity card with payment functionality signifies a significant step towards enhancing identification, financial inclusion, and access to essential services for Nigerians.
The collaboration between government institutions and adherence to international standards underscore the commitment to modernizing identity management and promoting socioeconomic development.