Nigeria must prioritize the urgent completion of its national identity program. Effective governance and security rely on an accurate count of the populace, an objective the nation has struggled to achieve for nearly twenty years. Current progress shows 137 million individuals enrolled, reflecting significant growth from the 117 million recorded eighteen months ago. President Tinubu has reinforced this effort by enacting the NIMC Act 2026, setting an ambitious target to register all citizens by the end of the year.
Despite this momentum, the project faces ongoing obstacles including infrastructure deficits, inconsistent funding, and accessibility challenges for rural areas. Concerns regarding data integrity and security have also persisted, with some citizens questioning the system’s susceptibility to unauthorized registrations. Furthermore, while the linkage of the National Identity Number (NIN) to financial and communication services was intended to enhance security, criminal activity remains a significant concern.
A complete, reliable database is essential for precise policy implementation in healthcare, education, and social services. To succeed, the government must move beyond mere speed and focus on rigorous verification, robust data protection, and strict border management. Completing this universal register is not about status but is a fundamental requirement for national order, security, and effective public administration.
