FG Plans Three National ID Cards for 104m Nigerians by June.
The Federal Government is set to unveil three new national identity cards in May, targeting approximately 104 million citizens across Nigeria.
According to Ayodele Babalola, the Technical Adviser, Media, and Communications to the Director-General of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), the planned cards include a bank-enabled National ID card, a social intervention card, and an optional ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card.
Read Also : Atiku Accuses Tinubu of Awarding Contracts to His Personal Business Interests
Babalola revealed in an interview with The PUNCH that Nigerians can expect to receive the three national ID cards within one to two months after the launch, with the specific date in May subject to presidential approval.
The bank-enabled National ID card is expected to cater to the needs of middle and upper-class citizens who frequently utilize banking services.
Read Also : Adejumoke Aderounmu, Known for Iconic Role in “Jenifa’s Diary” dies (photo)
Meanwhile, the National Safety Net Card aims to facilitate government services and interventions, particularly for the 25 million vulnerable Nigerians supported by ongoing government programs.
Furthermore, an optional ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card will be issued on an as-needed basis, in collaboration with the Nigerian Immigration Service.
The initiative represents a collaborative effort between NIMC, the Central Bank of Nigeria, and the Nigeria Inter-bank Settlement System, with the goal of enhancing access to social and financial services for domestic consumers.
Babalola emphasized that digital versions of all cards will be available for individuals who prefer digital formats, with limited functionalities. Additionally, the ECOWAS cards will be issued in collaboration with the Nigerian Immigration Service.
The rollout of these cards comes amidst broader efforts to enhance digital identity management in Nigeria. The government’s ambitious target is to provide at least 148 million working-age Nigerians with a digital national ID by mid-2024, in collaboration with the World Bank and other stakeholders.
Nigerians Are Facing Hardship — Labour Party Asks FG To Reconsider Electricity Tariff Hike
Resources Wastage Experts react
While the initiative holds promise for improved access to government services and financial inclusion, some experts have expressed reservations. Oluseyi Akindeinde, CEO of Hyperspace, raised concerns about duplication of efforts and resource wastage, suggesting that existing platforms such as the National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN) suffice for current needs.
Similarly, Chucks Jerahmeel highlighted the need for robust technological infrastructure and data privacy regulations to support the effective implementation of the new ID cards.
The government’s initiative to issue new identity cards is not without precedent, with previous attempts such as the National ID project facing challenges and setbacks. Despite past hurdles, the government remains committed to modernizing identity management and streamlining government services through digital innovation.
As the nation awaits further developments, the success of the new ID card initiative will depend on effective implementation, robust cybersecurity measures, and safeguarding citizen privacy in the digital age.
Stay informed with Ejes Gist News – Your Source for Credible Naija News Today, latest naija gists today and Breaking News in Nigeria Now.
