The Federal Government has revealed plans to launch a multipurpose identity card for Nigerians, aiming to enhance access to financial services and government programs.
The announcement came through a video posted on X by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s media team.
According to the Presidency, the card will allow Nigerians to access loans, financial services, and government interventions.
It will also improve transparency in the relationship between the government and its citizens.
“The National ID card is more than just an identity document. It will provide access to essential government programs and services,” the Presidency said.
Driving Financial Inclusion
A key focus of the new card is financial inclusion.
The government aims to bring over 100 million Nigerians into the formal financial system.
“The card will automatically include Nigerians in the banking sector, many of whom have been excluded for years,” the Presidency emphasized.
Users will be able to request either credit or debit cards linked to their accounts.
Additionally, the card will help Nigerians build verifiable credit scores.
This is possible through a partnership between the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP).
The partnership will allow financial institutions to access credit histories based on the National Identification Number (NIN).
Job Seekers and Verification
The multipurpose card will also be essential for job seekers in both the public and private sectors.
NIMC announced that employers will require the card to verify applicants’ identities and ensure they have no questionable records.
This will add an extra layer of trust for employers, especially in the recruitment process.
How to Get the Card
Dr. Peter Iwegbu, Head of Card Management Services at NIMC, explained the process for obtaining the card.
He noted that although the NIN is mandatory for all Nigerians, the card itself must be requested.
NIMC has partnered with banks across the country to simplify the distribution process.
Nigerians can visit any nearby bank to request the card.
“The cards will be issued at a uniform price across all banks,” Iwegbu assured.
A Long-Awaited Launch
Plans for the multipurpose ID card were first announced in April this year.
The card will be powered by AfriGO and launched in partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Inter-bank Settlement System (NIBSS).
It will also be integrated with the eNaira, Nigeria’s digital currency.
The card’s functionality will extend to payments, identity verification, and access to government services.
It will comply with global security and operational standards, ensuring users’ data is safe.
Experts Weigh In
Experts believe the new ID card could revolutionize financial access in Nigeria.
“It’s a game-changer for financial inclusion,” said a financial analyst in Lagos.
He added that building credit scores would encourage more Nigerians to take loans and grow small businesses.
Others, however, have expressed concerns about data security and privacy.
NIMC has assured Nigerians that the card will follow strict data protection guidelines.
A New Era for Identity in Nigeria
The multipurpose ID card represents a significant step forward in Nigeria’s digital identity system.
It is expected to streamline access to government services and financial products.
As the launch approaches, many Nigerians are eager to see how the card will impact their daily lives.
