The number of Nigerians with National Identification Numbers has increased to 110 million, the National Identity Management Commission has disclosed.
This is a 2.39 per cent increase from the 107.34 million that was recorded as of the end of May 2024.
The Commission’s Director General Abisoye Coker-Odusote, disclosed the new figure at an ongoing event to commemorate the sixth edition of the National Day of Identity themed, “Digital Public Infrastructure: Enabling Access to Services” on Monday in Abuja.
She stated that this accomplishment results from the strategic plan implemented by the current NIMC management, highlighting that the role of DPI has become indispensable to Nigeria’s economic development.
She said, “The role of DPI has become indispensable to Nigeria’s economic development, as it offers a framework that connects citizens to essential services such as social welfare, healthcare, education, and financial inclusion. At the forefront of this transformation is NIMC, responsible for the National Identification Number, which has enrolled over 110 million Nigerians.
“This provides a unique opportunity for the other two pillars of the DPI – data exchange and payment – to be layered on foundational identity for its effective development and adoption.”
The NIMC DG added that the digital infrastructure has also assisted the government and financial institutions in facilitating digital payments, digital money, digital identity and digital processes.
She explained that the Student Loan Initiative which has benefitted 257 institutions, registered 332,715 students for loans, and made payments to over 18,000 students showcases how DPI can eliminate financial barriers to education.
“I must say we are on the right path and key strides have been made through collaboration and partnerships with government agencies and private sector players linking of NINs and phone numbers with the telecommunication companies, NIN and Bank Verification Number harmonisation with financial institutions to facilitate digital payments, digital money, digital identity and digital processes, amongst others.
“Furthermore, the Student Loan Initiative showcases how DPI can eliminate financial barriers to education. By collaborating with 257 institutions, 332,715 students have been registered for loans, and over 18,000 students have already received payments through the initiative,” she added.
(PUNCH)