Following reports that National Identification Number (NIN) slips were being sold online for as little as 100 Naira, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has outlined steps being taken to address the data breach and strengthen cybersecurity.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Minister Tijani confirmed his ministry’s collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, which oversees the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), to investigate the matter. He also highlighted the role of the National Data Protection Commission (NDPC), under his supervision, which has launched a probe into the circumstances surrounding the alleged breach.
Beyond immediate actions, the Minister emphasized proactive measures implemented since his appointment to solidify technology use and data protection in government. These initiatives include a white paper outlining his vision for a secure and efficient digital public infrastructure, workshops with government officials on data exchange and cybersecurity, and training programs for civil servants on responsible data management.
The Minister further revealed a request for presidential approval to implement a data exchange system across government agencies. This system, expected to be piloted by year’s end, aims to enhance data security and streamline service delivery for citizens.
The Minister concluded by encouraging civil society organizations and interested parties to engage with the government’s efforts to strengthen digital public infrastructure and data protection.