In a significant legislative move, the Nigerian Senate has proposed a bill to mandate the use of the National Identification Number (NIN) for Nigerians living abroad.
This proposal aims to ensure that all Nigerians, irrespective of their location, are integrated into the national identification system.
The bill, sponsored by the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, and read for the first time on June 5, seeks to enhance the efficiency and inclusivity of Nigeria’s Identity Management System. It proposes the establishment of a National Identity Database maintained by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
In a lead debate on the bill, Senator Jibrin emphasized the importance of a robust identity management system for the socio-economic and political development of the country. He highlighted that the bill includes provisions for the registration of individuals and the issuance of identity credentials, aiming to update existing regulations in line with global best practices.
The proposed legislation also focuses on streamlining the sharing of personal data, incorporating robust data protection measures to safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of individuals’ information. This move is expected to foster trust among citizens in the handling of their personal data.
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Furthermore, the bill underscores the critical role of an effective identity management system in national security, economic planning, and the overall development of the country. By mandating NIN for Nigerians abroad, the Senate aims to create a comprehensive and inclusive national database that reflects the identity of all its citizens.
If passed into law, this legislation will require Nigerians living overseas to register for and use their NIN for various official purposes, including banking, legal transactions, and access to government services.
This effort is part of a broader strategy to ensure that all Nigerians are accounted for and have access to the benefits of a unified national identity system.
