President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a major achievement in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey, revealing that over 126 million Nigerians are now enrolled in the National Identity Database with their National Identity Numbers (NIN). This milestone was shared on Tuesday, September 16, during the 7th National Day of Identity at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, where Tinubu was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
The President praised the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) for clearing a backlog of 2.5 million records in just two years, arresting over 30 individuals running fake registration centres, and deploying more than 800 mobile enrolment devices across Nigeria. He highlighted how the Commission’s mobile and web self-service platforms have already processed over 500,000 updates, making access to identity services easier for citizens.
Tinubu emphasized that digital identity is the backbone of Nigeria’s digital economy, noting that it strengthens governance, enhances financial inclusion, improves social protection programmes, and bolsters national security. He also revealed that the database capacity has expanded from 100 million to 250 million, with more than 200 diaspora centres established for Nigerians abroad, alongside enrolments for refugees, internally displaced persons, and inmates.
“Behind this number are workers who can now claim their pensions without fear of fraud. Some students can now access loans and scholarships with ease. Some farmers receive targeted incentives that boost productivity and strengthen food security. There are displaced persons and vulnerable groups who now have proof of identity that enables them to benefit from humanitarian support. This is the true power of identity, and this is the progress we celebrate.” Tinubu said
The integration of NIN with over 125 government institutions, including immigration, tax, healthcare, and education agencies, has eliminated duplication, improved efficiency, and curbed fraud through the NIN-SIM linkage policy. Tinubu further assured Nigerians of ongoing reforms at NIMC, including modernized facilities, staff welfare improvements, and the launch of a world-class customer care centre.
With ISO 27001:2022 certification, global-standard security, and the introduction of the High Availability Verification Service, Tinubu stressed that Nigeria’s identity system is more secure than ever before.
