The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has said that Nigerians who have registered for the National Identification Number (NIN) will soon be able to request for a National ID card with payment functionality for all types of social and financial services.
The ID card, which is to be launched by NIMC in partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Inter-bank Settlement System (NIBSS), will be powered by NIBSS’ AfriGO, a National domestic card scheme.
According to a statement signed by NIMC’s Head of Corporate Communications, Kayode Adegoke, the National ID card, layered with verifiable National Identity features, is backed by the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, which mandates NIMC to enroll and issue a General Multipurpose card (GMPC) to Nigerians and legal residents.
NIMC explained that the card will address the demand for physical identification enabling cardholders to prove their identity, access government and private social services, facilitate financial inclusion for disenfranchised Nigerians, empower citizens, as well as encourage increased participation in nation-building.
NIMC said data of the card users would be adequately protected in line with data protection regulations and public interest and would ensure compliance with international standards on data security protocols as security features that protect the confidentiality and safety of users’ information.
According to NIMC, the key features of the card will include:
NIMC added that requests for cards by registered citizens and legal residents will be made available online, at any commercial bank, various agencies, or agents participating in multiple programs and/or any NIMC offices nationwide.