The Federal Government, working alongside the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), has revealed plans to introduce an upgraded National ID card that incorporates payment functionalities and social service attributes. This initiative, developed in partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigeria Inter-bank Settlement System, is set to be powered by AfriGO, a national domestic card scheme. Kayode Adegoke, the Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC, made the announcement in a statement released on Friday.
According to NIMC, the enhanced ID card, fortified with verifiable National Identity features, is in accordance with the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, which mandates the issuance of a multipurpose card to both Nigerians and legal residents. The primary objective behind this initiative is to address the need for physical identification, allowing cardholders to verify their identity and access various government and private social services.
Furthermore, the new ID card is expected to facilitate financial inclusion, empowering citizens and encouraging greater participation in national development endeavors. Eligibility for the card is restricted to registered citizens and legal residents possessing the National Identification Number, as stipulated by NIMC.
The statement emphasized that the card will adhere to ICAO standards and serve as the nation’s default identity card. Alongside its identification functionalities, cardholders will have the option to utilize the card as a debit or prepaid card by linking it to their preferred bank accounts. Additionally, the card aims to grant access to government intervention programs for financially excluded individuals.
NIMC reiterated its commitment to safeguarding cardholders’ personal data in accordance with data protection regulations and international standards on data security protocols. The card will feature a machine-readable zone compliant with ICAO standards, incorporating information akin to e-passport details, identity card issuance date, and document number. Other features encompass travel, health insurance information, microloans, agriculture support, food stamps, transport, energy subsidies, among others.
