President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to ensure that every Nigerian is enrolled in the National Identity Number (NIN) database before the end of 2026, in a renewed push to achieve universal digital identity coverage across the country.
The directive forms part of the Federal Government's broader digital transformation agenda aimed at improving access to public services, strengthening national security, enhancing economic planning, and promoting financial inclusion.
According to the Presidency, expanding the National Identity Number database will enable more Nigerians to seamlessly access government programmes, financial services, healthcare, education, telecommunications, and other essential services that increasingly rely on verified digital identities.
The President emphasized that a comprehensive national identity system is critical for effective governance, accurate population data, and the efficient delivery of public services. He noted that achieving full NIN enrollment would also support evidence-based policymaking and improve the planning and implementation of government programmes.
Over the past few years, the Federal Government has integrated the NIN with several national services, including SIM card registration, passport applications, tax administration, banking services, social intervention programmes, and voter registration. The latest directive is expected to accelerate efforts to capture millions of Nigerians who are yet to register.
The National Identity Number is a unique 11-digit number assigned to every registered individual by NIMC. It serves as a lifelong identity that helps verify an individual's identity when accessing both public and private sector services.
Government officials say increasing NIN enrollment will strengthen efforts to combat identity fraud, reduce duplication in government databases, improve security intelligence, and enhance transparency in the administration of public resources.
The directive also aligns with Nigeria's ambition to expand its digital economy by ensuring that every citizen can participate in technology-driven services. A robust digital identity system is expected to encourage financial inclusion, support digital payments, and simplify access to government initiatives targeted at individuals and businesses.
NIMC is expected to intensify enrollment campaigns across the country by expanding registration centres, deploying mobile enrollment units to underserved communities, and collaborating with state governments and other agencies to reach more Nigerians.
Citizens who have not yet obtained their NIN are encouraged to register at any accredited NIMC enrollment centre or approved partner location. Existing registrants are also advised to update their personal information where necessary to ensure the accuracy of the national identity database.
The Federal Government believes that achieving universal NIN enrollment by the end of 2026 will strengthen Nigeria's digital infrastructure, improve service delivery, and position the country for greater economic growth in an increasingly digital world.
As the deadline approaches, NIMC is expected to roll out additional awareness campaigns and operational measures to ensure that millions of unregistered Nigerians are captured within the stipulated timeframe.