The Senate passed a bill on Wednesday March 26, 2025 that mandate the compulsory registration of citizens, aiming to overhaul Nigeria’s Identity Management System.
This move follows the repeal and reenactment of National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act.
The passage came after the Committee on National Identity Card and Population chaired by Senator Victor Umeh– Anambra Central, submitted and considered a report on the matter.
Umeh explained that the legislation seeks to establish a harmonized cost-effective identity system that aligns with global best practices.
The bill also aims to enhanced data accuracy, promote inclusion, and close gaps in Nigeria’s existing identity database.
Once signed into law, the bill will create a centralized database and a commission responsible for registering citizens and issuing identity cards.
The legislation now awaits consideration by the House of Representatives before being forwarded to to the President for assent.
-9News Nigeria.
