In a major step toward enhancing digital security and identity management, the Federal Government has approved a new service by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) that allows for safer and more efficient verification of individuals using their National Identification Number (NIN).
The new verification platform, which was recently endorsed by the Federal Executive Council (FEC), is designed to support real-time identity authentication across multiple sectors — including banking, telecommunications, health, and security. The move is part of the government’s broader agenda to strengthen Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, reduce fraud, and streamline access to public and private services.
According to the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, the service aims to simplify identity confirmation while ensuring greater data privacy and protection for Nigerian citizens. He described it as a game-changer in how government and businesses handle customer and citizen identification.
“With this approval, NIMC now has the legal and technical backing to deploy a secure identity verification system that enables institutions to confirm people’s identities without compromising their sensitive data,” Tijani explained.
The new system will integrate biometric and demographic features and is expected to significantly reduce identity theft, impersonation, and other forms of fraud. It will also be critical for institutions that rely heavily on accurate identity records to comply with regulatory requirements and improve service delivery.
NIMC Director-General, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, noted that the platform will provide verifiable NIN-based identity checks through secure APIs and portals. She added that the commission is working closely with stakeholders to ensure smooth onboarding for licensed partners and users across key sectors.
“This is not just about technology — it is about trust, security, and national development. Our goal is to make identity verification seamless for citizens while protecting the integrity of the national database,” Coker-Odusote stated.
Nigeria’s National Identification Number system has grown significantly in recent years, with over 100 million records captured as of 2024. The new service is expected to further accelerate digital adoption, particularly in financial services and e-governance, where identity accuracy is critical.
Experts in data protection and cybersecurity have commended the initiative, but urged NIMC to ensure transparency, compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act, and strong safeguards against misuse.
With the rollout of the new service imminent, Nigerians can expect a more reliable and secure process for verifying identities — a move that aligns with global trends in digital transformation and smart governance.
