The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has said that harmonisation and management of national identity is the major means of controlling crime across Nigeria towards national development.
This was even as the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has launched the ‘self service on-online solution’ to address existing challenges and ensure enhanced enrolments.
The minister spoke in Abuja, during the 5th National Identity Day, which held with the theme, ‘Identity as a Catalyst for Nigeria’s Development: Examining the Role of Identity in Key Government Programmes of Good Safety Net, Financial Inclusion, Promotion of Governance and Transparency.’
He said: “We live in the modern digital age where a secure and verifiable identity is vital for any set system to work. Now you can’t access bank services and get ATM cards without proving your identity.”
You can’t even engage with others on online social media platforms without first verifying your identity.
“So identity is key in our everyday lives, which is why we commemorate this day. Harmonisation and management of national identity is a major means of mitigating and controlling crime as well as for national development.
“With a database of over 100 million National Identification Numbers in the National Identity Database (NIDB), NIMC provided essential access to attaining this goal along with other major stakeholders.
“As a member of the Ministry of Interior family, NIMC joins in with other sister agencies in not only improving access by the general public to services like passport acquisition and renewal but also the likes of efficient border security technology.”
Earlier in her address, Acting Director General of NIMC, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, said the commission is committed to providing Nigerians and legal residents with a digital primary identity.
She said that Nigeria’s journey towards a robust Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) is emblematic of its commitment to harnessing the power of digital technology for the betterment of its citizens, especially in the provision of social services.
Her words: “We firmly believe that access to a reliable identity is not a privilege but a fundamental right. It serves as the cornerstone upon which we can build a more inclusive, secure and prosperous society.
“As we celebrate World identity Day today, we must also acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. Ensuring universal access to a trusted identity, regardless of background or circumstances, demands innovation, unwavering dedication and global collaboration.
“In the face of emerging technologies and evolving threats, we must remain vigilant in safeguarding the integrity and security of identity systems. While embracing digital transformation, we must prioritise the principles of privacy and data protection. Above all, we must be inclusive, leaving no one behind as we endeavour to provide identity solutions for all.”