The Presidency on Wednesday highlighted the importance of the soon-to-be-launched multipurpose general ID card from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), emphasizing its numerous benefits for all Nigerians.
In a sensitization video shared on X by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Media Centre, the Presidency outlined that the card will grant access to government interventions, reinforcing efforts to improve transparency in social contracts with citizens. Additionally, cardholders will be able to easily access loans from government and financial institutions, supported by verifiable credit scores based on their financial histories.
The Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) recently announced its collaboration with NIMC to accelerate the development of credit scores for Nigerians with National Identification Numbers (NIN).
Promoting Financial Inclusion
The Presidency also underscored that the multipurpose card is a key tool for advancing financial inclusion, with plans to integrate over 100 million Nigerians into the banking sector. The card will automatically provide financial inclusion for many Nigerians who have previously been excluded from the system.
“The National ID Card will facilitate access to banking services for millions, granting users the opportunity to request either a credit or debit card,” the Presidency added.
Beyond banking services, the NIN is already a requirement for obtaining an international passport and driver’s license. Now it will also be necessary for applying for both government and private sector jobs, providing employers with confidence in the legitimacy and verifiability of job candidates’ identities.
How to Obtain the Card
During a media workshop in Lagos last week, Dr. Peter Iwegbu, the Head of Card Management Services at NIMC, explained that while the NIN is mandatory for all Nigerians, individuals who wish to obtain the multipurpose card must request it. He confirmed that the card will soon be available to the public, with sample test cards already received. NIMC is working with banks nationwide to decentralize the application process, allowing Nigerians to apply for the card at any nearby bank.
Iwegbu assured that the card will be issued at a standard price across all banks to ensure fairness and uniformity.
Background
In April, NIMC announced plans to launch a multipurpose national ID card that would serve for identity verification, payments, and access to government services. The card, powered by AfriGO and developed in partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Inter-bank Settlement System (NIBSS), will integrate services across multiple government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).
The card will also support the eNaira, in compliance with EMV operational and security standards, further expanding its utility for Nigerians across various sectors.
