The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) says it has enrolled more than 136 million Nigerians into the National Identity Number (NIN) database as the Federal Government begins implementing the new NIMC Act 2026.
The commission said the milestone reflects steady progress in Nigeria’s identity management system and supports the country’s transition to a modern digital identity framework.
New Law Replaces 2007 Act
President Bola Tinubu recently signed the NIMC Act 2026 into law, replacing the 2007 legislation that previously governed Nigeria’s identity management system.
According to NIMC, the new law strengthens digital identity management, improves data protection and aligns Nigeria’s identity ecosystem with international standards.
NIMC Highlights Enrolment Progress
The commission said more than 136 million Nigerians have successfully enrolled for the National Identification Number.
In addition, it noted that the new legal framework will strengthen identity verification and improve access to both public and private services.
The commission also said the reforms will support digital transactions while enhancing trust in Nigeria’s digital economy.
New Act Introduces Major Reforms
The NIMC Act 2026 gives the commission broader powers to manage Nigeria’s digital identity infrastructure.
Furthermore, it designates NIMC as the country’s Root Certificate Authority, providing the legal framework for secure digital authentication and electronic transactions.
The law also introduces tougher penalties for identity-related offences and expands the use of the National Identification Number across essential government and private sector services.
FG Targets Inclusive Digital Identity
NIMC said it will continue expanding enrolment across the country to ensure more Nigerians benefit from the digital identity programme.
Meanwhile, the commission urged citizens who have not registered to take advantage of ongoing enrolment exercises as implementation of the new law gathers momentum.
