The Nigerian Senate has passed a bill making national identity registration compulsory, aiming to reform the country’s identity management system through the repeal and reenactment of the National Identity Management Commission Act.
The bill, which seeks to establish a centralized database for citizens, was approved following the presentation of a report by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Identity Card and Population, Senator Victor Umeh.
Umeh, who represents Anambra Central under the Labour Party, explained that the proposed law would strengthen the NIMC’s role in identity management.
“The bill will facilitate the creation of a national identity database, enhance biometric data collection, and empower the NIMC to issue regulations and guidelines for implementing the Act and other related matters,” he stated.
He emphasized that the new framework would ensure a more efficient and inclusive identity system.
“The Act will establish a streamlined identity system governed by less restrictive, non-discriminatory, and cost-effective data protection measures that align with global standards,” he added.
Umeh further noted that the bill received strong backing from stakeholders during a public hearing, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive identity system in Nigeria.
With the Senate’s approval, the bill will now move to the House of Representatives for further deliberation before being signed into law.
