Abuja, July 2, 2024 – The Senate on Tuesday passed a bill to grant foreigners residing in Nigeria the right to acquire the National Identification Number (NIN).
The bill is to allow all persons resident in Nigeria to obtain a National Identification Number (NIN) and utilise it as a recognised form of identification
The Bill is titled: “A Bill for an Act to Repeal the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2007, and to Provide for the Establishment of a National Identity Database and the National Identity Management Commission Charged with the Responsibilities for Maintenance of the National Database, the Registration of Individuals, and the Issuance of Identity Credentials; and for Related Matters, 2024.”
The bill was sponsored by the Deputy Senate President, Barau I. Jibrin (Kano North).
During the plenary session, Senator Cyril Fasuyi (Ekiti North) presented the lead debate on the bill’s general principles, while Senator Barau Jibrin, the sponsor,
Fasuyi said the bill aimed to revoke the existing Act and establish a new regulatory framework for the National Identity Management Commission to enhance capabilities to ensure more effective oversight and regulation of the Nigeria ID System.
The senator said, “The objectives of the bill are as follows: (a) Expanding the scope of registrable persons by broadening the eligibility criteria for registration under the Nigeria ID System to ensure inclusivity and universal coverage.
“This allows all persons resident in Nigeria to obtain a National Identification Number (NIN) and utilise it as a recognised form of identification.
“(b) Streamlining the sharing of personal data by incorporating robust data protection measures to not only safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of individuals’ data but also to foster trust among citizens in the landing of their information.
“(c) Enhancing administrative enforcement powers. The efficiency and effectiveness of the NIMC’s enforcement powers will ensure timely and accurate compliance with ID registration requirements.
“(d) Removing Criminalization for Non-Use of NIN: Replacing criminal penalties with administrative enforcement measures to encourage compliance with NIN usage requirements without imposing undue legal consequences on individuals.”
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