As Nigeria marks the 2024 National Identity Day, President Bola Tinubu has renewed his commitment to establishing a robust digital public infrastructure aimed at advancing the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda and ensuring access to services for all Nigerians.
The President highlighted the critical role of digital identity in driving government programmes and initiatives during the event organised by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) in Abuja.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, Tinubu emphasised that an efficient digital identity system is crucial to the success of key government programmes, including the National Youth Talent Export Programme, the student loan scheme, the Renewed Hope City and Estate Housing initiative, the Skill-up Artisans Programme and the provision of incentives for farmers.
“Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) is the backbone that enables access to essential services, from healthcare and education to financial inclusion and social welfare,” the President stated. “A reliable digital identity system is fundamental in creating a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.”
The theme for this year’s National Identity Day, “Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): Enabling Access to Services,” underscores the vital importance of digital identity in national development. Tinubu reiterated that in today’s digital era, the ability to prove one’s identity is not only a matter of convenience but also a key driver of socio-economic progress.
“In the modern age, proving one’s identity is essential for accessing a wide range of services. By leveraging DPI, we can streamline service delivery, reduce bureaucratic obstacles and ensure that government programmes reach those who need them most,” Tinubu said. “A robust and efficient digital identity system is integral to ensuring that essential services and government assistance are delivered to the right people.”
Tinubu further explained that digital identity is central to fostering transparency, accountability, and economic development, which are critical elements of his administration’s ‘Renewed Hope’ initiative aimed at improving the living standards of all Nigerians. He stressed that digital identity empowers individuals, facilitates economic transactions and strengthens governance.
“With a reliable digital identity system, we can build a Nigeria where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to national development,” he added.
Tinubu also commended NIMC’s director-general, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote for her leadership in advancing Nigeria’s digital identity agenda. He lauded her efforts in collaborating with ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to ensure the success of government programs through the use of digital identity.
“Your dedication to promoting digital identity initiatives is commendable. The collaboration between NIMC and various government agencies has been instrumental in our journey towards building a sustainable digital public infrastructure,” Tinubu stated.
Earlier in her speech, NIMC DG, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote emphasised the indispensable role of digital public infrastructure in Nigeria’s economic development. She explained that DPI connects citizens to essential services, including social welfare, healthcare, education and financial inclusion. Additionally, she highlighted how DPI provides a framework for integrating data exchange and payment systems with foundational identity, promoting its effective development and adoption.
Coker-Odusote disclosed that NIMC has enrolled over 110 million Nigerians into the National Identity Number (NIN) system, marking significant progress in the government’s efforts to establish a comprehensive identity framework.
“With the Federal Government’s investment in social and palliative programmes to mitigate the impact of economic reforms, a strong digital public infrastructure will support these initiatives and ensure that they reach the most vulnerable members of society,” she noted.
The NIMC DG also emphasised the importance of deploying an identity system that allows individuals to verify and authenticate their identities when accessing public services. She explained that DPI, guided by the principles of openness, interoperability and standardisation, has the potential to accelerate financial inclusion and transform lives by addressing challenges related to physical distance, documentation, and high transaction costs typically encountered when accessing public sector services.
Coker-Odusote highlighted several key benefits of DPI, including its ability to reach vulnerable groups during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, by providing cash assistance through the national payment system. Additionally, she noted the increase in the number of adults with bank accounts and the delivery of services in a more efficient and cost-effective manner.
The event marked the 6th edition of Nigeria’s National Identity Day, which was themed “Digital Public Infrastructure: Enabling Access to Services in Nigeria.” National Identity Day, recognised globally on September 16, highlights the importance of identity systems in promoting inclusion, protection and empowerment.
As Nigeria continues its journey towards a digitally enabled society, the focus on digital identity remains critical in fostering equitable access to services, improving governance and driving socio-economic development. With the continued commitment of both government and stakeholders, digital public infrastructure is set to play a pivotal role in building a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.
