The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has announced that over 123 million Nigerians have been enrolled in the country’s National Identity database, each with a unique National Identity Number (NIN).
This milestone was shared by NIMC’s Director General, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, at the 7th National Day of Identity conference in Abuja.
The DG provided details on the significant progress of the national identity project, noting its expanding reach both inside and outside the country.
- Diaspora Enrollment: 52% of Nigerians living abroad are now captured in the database.
- Correctional Facilities: 85% of inmates in Nigeria’s correctional system have been enrolled.
Engr. Coker-Odusote credited this rapid growth to recent infrastructure upgrades, which have streamlined the enrollment process. The commission has enhanced its network with over 200 enrollment centers nationwide and abroad, leading to a 49% reduction in the time it takes to get a NIN.
In addition to expanding the database, NIMC has harmonized the NIN with approximately 125 government agencies and institutions. This integration is aimed at strengthening the national data ecosystem and improving governance and service delivery.
Addressing public concerns about data security, the DG reassured the public that the NIMC database is secure and protected by global standards. She stated that the database is the most secure in the country, which is crucial for building public confidence in the national digital identity project.
The announcement comes as Nigeria continues to build a robust digital infrastructure, with the NIN serving as a foundational key for national planning, security, and social services. The ongoing enrollment drive reflects a concerted effort to create a single, verifiable identity for every citizen.