![Sen. George Akume.](https://sciencenigeria.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Sen.-George-Akume.jpg)
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume has hailed the National Identity Number (NIN) as a key to accessing social services. He emphasised that this requirement is especially crucial for the poor and vulnerable populations to benefit from government palliatives.
Akume made this announcement while opening an Inter-Ministerial retreat on the Nigeria Digital Identification for Development (ID4D) Project in Ikeja, Lagos. He was represented by Prof. Babatunde Bolaji.
He reiterated that providing a digital identity for all Nigerians is a key objective of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The SGF urged all government agencies to support the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) in establishing a robust and inclusive national identity system.
He commended NIMC director-general for her dedication and commitment to fulfilling the commission’s mandate.
As the chairman of the Project Ecosystem Steering Committee (PESC) for the Nigeria Digital Identification for Development (ID4D) Project, the SGF assured the NIMC of his support in pursuing reforms that will enhance its effectiveness.
The Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Tanko Sununu also praised the leadership of NIMC and the ID4D team for their achievements. He reaffirmed his ministry’s collaboration with NIMC to ensure that the NIN is utilised for accessing social services and palliatives aimed at vulnerable populations across the country.
For her part, the NIMC DG, represented by his technical assistant on policy and partnerships, Ayobami Abiola expressed gratitude to the SGF and the minister. She assured PESC members of the commission’s commitment to delivering on its mandate.
“The enthusiasm and collaborative spirit displayed at this retreat are truly encouraging,” said the NIMC director-general, who also serves as the Secretary of the PESC. “Our discussions today have not only highlighted our achievements but also set the stage for innovative solutions to the challenges ahead.
“We are confident that with sustained inter-agency collaboration and support from all critical stakeholders, we will accelerate our mission to strengthen the national identity system. This will ensure that every Nigerian and legal resident has a verifiable digital identity and that no one is left behind,” she added.
A statement from the head of the commission’s corporate communications unit, Kayode Adegoke (PhD) noted that the retreat was attended by key members of the project ecosystem steering committee and other strategic partners. They reviewed the progress of the Nigeria Digital Identification for Development (ID4D) Project, celebrated milestone achievements and engaged in discussions to address implementation challenges.