The Senate took a significant step forward on Tuesday by advancing a bill aimed at bolstering the National Identity Management Commission's (NIMC) regulatory capabilities and enhancing Nigeria's identity system.
Sponsored by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, the proposed legislation seeks to expand registration eligibility to ensure inclusivity and universal coverage. If enacted, it would allow all residents of Nigeria to obtain a National Identification Number (NIN), establishing it as a recognized form of identification.
Titled "A Bill for an Act to Repeal the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2007, and to Provide for the Establishment of a National Identity Database and the National Identity Management Commission Charged with the Responsibilities for Maintenance of the National Database, the Registration of Individuals, and the Issuance of Identity Credentials; and for Related Matters, 2024," the bill aims to modernize the current identity framework.
Barau emphasized that the bill includes robust data protection measures to safeguard individual privacy and foster trust among citizens. It also aims to enhance NIMC's administrative enforcement powers, ensuring timely compliance with ID registration requirements and streamlining the registration process to reduce bureaucratic hurdles.
A key aspect of the bill is the shift from criminal penalties for non-use of NIN to administrative enforcement measures, encouraging compliance without imposing harsh legal consequences. Additionally, the bill seeks to strengthen NIMC’s oversight and regulatory capacities, ensuring adherence to standards and fostering public trust in the system's integrity.
Barau highlighted that, once passed, the bill would harmonize existing identity systems across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), promoting interoperability and coherence. The bill is expected to unlock significant financial and security benefits for the nation by fostering inclusion, universal coverage, and accessibility.
The proposed legislation received widespread support from senators during the debate, who endorsed its passage for second reading.
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