National Assembly moves to strengthen NIMC’s identity regulatory functions

By TOM CHIAHEMEN, Abuja –

The National Assembly has commenced the process of  repealing and enacting the NIMC Act No. 23 as part of efforts aimed at strengthening  the regulatory function of the National Identity Management Commission (MIMC).

Head, Corporate Communications Unit of the Commission, Kayode Adegoke, in a statement at the weekend, noted that the NIMC Bill represented “a significant legislative endeavour to enhance the efficacy and inclusivity of the Identity Management System.”

According to Adegoke, “this updated and comprehensive bill embodies several proposed amendments designed to improve the effectiveness and inclusivity of the Nigeria ID System.”

He disclosed that the amendments sought  to fortify the foundational framework of the NIMC and its operations by expanding the Scope of Registrable Persons, adding that the benefit to the country was a more comprehensive and inclusive identification system, which enhances national security, facilitates efficient service delivery, and promotes financial inclusion.

“The bill also aims to streamline the sharing of personal data, incorporating robust data protection measures to safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of individuals’ personal data and foster trust among citizens in the handling of their information. It also enhances NIMC’s administrative enforcement Power to ensure timely and accurate compliance with ID registration requirements,” he said.

The NIMC repeal and enactment bill, when passed into law, will lead to a more streamlined registration process, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and enhancing the reliability of the Nigeria ID System, Adegoke said.