Nigeria’s digital public infrastructure to improve service delivery, security – NIMC

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has reaffirmed commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) to enhance governance, improve service delivery, bolster national security, and drive socio-economic development.

Speaking at a digital conference themed ‘Building Africa’s Digital Foundations Together’ in Abuja, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, the director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NIMC, said the commission is spearheading reforms aimed at creating a secure and inclusive digital identity ecosystem across the country.

Represented at the event by Sulaiman Falade, the head of infrastructure technology and identity databases, the NIMC boss noted that the commission is implementing strategic reforms, fostering institutional collaboration, and deploying secure digital identity systems to support efficient service delivery for citizens and residents.

According to her, the National Identification Number (NIN) remains central to Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda, serving as a key tool for digital authentication, identity verification, and access to both government and private sector services.

Coker-Odusote disclosed that, in line with the Presidential Directive issued on April 5, 2024, Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have been mandated to ensure the effective use of the NIN in policies relating to data capture, identity verification, and biometric authentication across digital platforms.

She added that NIMC has already established the necessary structures to ensure effective implementation of the directive nationwide.

The NIMC DG further emphasised the Federal Government’s vision of building a unified, secure, and interoperable digital identity ecosystem capable of promoting transparency, accountability, and seamless access to services.

She explained that, as part of Nigeria’s broader Digital Public Infrastructure framework, NIMC continues to play a leading role in advancing digital governance and supporting national development objectives through the integration of digital identity systems and the deployment of the National Public Key Infrastructure (nPKI).

According to her, the initiative is expected to strengthen trust in digital transactions, safeguard citizens’ data, and promote secure online interactions across the country.

She also called on stakeholders in both the public and private sectors to support the implementation of Nigeria’s digital identity ecosystem and related initiatives aimed at improving service delivery outcomes for Nigerians.

Coker-Odusote reiterated NIMC’s commitment to leveraging technology, innovation, and secure digital systems to build a more connected, efficient, and resilient nation.