Federal Government said it has concluded arrangements for the implementation of Local Government Proof of Address System (POA) across the 774 local government areas, as part of efforts to tackle insecurity, boost economic planning and strengthen national identity management.
George Akume, secretary to the government of the federation, disclosed this at the stakeholder’s meeting for the activation and implementation of the local government proof of address system, in Abuja on Wednesday.
The initiative is expected to assist in tackling cases of terrorism, unknown gunmen and banditry, by bringing all parts of the country on a proper surveillance radar.
The event which was attended by key stakeholders from ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), and the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), also had representatives from the German Embassy in Abuja.
Akume, represented by Maurice Mbaeri, permanent secretary, General Services Office, in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, said that when implemented, the POA would provide Nigerians with a verifiable and secure address, which would form an integral part of all administrative processes in both the public and private sectors.
Read also:FG seeks protection of critical infrastructure as cybercrimes hit $10.5trn
“When the initiative is fully implemented across the country, law enforcement agencies will have a robust database of verifiable addresses of Nigerians to enable them track and mitigate criminal activities and social vices.”
The initiative is also expected to bring development to the LGAs in allocating resources and implementing policies, as well as reduce risk in lending, delivery services, and commerce.
He, therefore, advised all MDAs to adopt the use of the proof of address certificate from the LGAs as a requirement to establish reliable and verifiable address, assuring that the proof of address initiative was an embodiment of hope, a symbol of progress, and a testament to the dedication of this administration to creating a better Nigeria for all.
Speaking earlier, Bello Lawal, the national president of ALGON, said that the POA would provide a verifiable address for Nigerians, which would lay a foundation for improved governance, planning, and service delivery, and will in turn contribute to greater security, economic prosperity, and social development across the nation.
He added that the employment of the initiative would equip agencies like the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Security Service, and other law enforcement agencies to gather accurate data for intelligence to stem insecurity at the grassroots.
Annett Gunther, the German ambassador to Nigeria, represented by police liaison officer (CID) German Embassy, Dominik Mueller, applauded the initiative, which he noted will help to tackle insecurity and other Sundry crimes.
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
