We’ll Protect, Secure NIN Database – NIMC

BY BLESSING NKEREUWEM – The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) says there is no cause for alarm given the top-notch security architecture put in place to protect the Citizens’ data in the country.

Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NIMC, Engineer Abisoye Coker-Odusote, gave the assurance concerning the safety and protection of data in its National Identity Database (NIDB) as part of activities to commemorate the National Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) Day.

Speaking against the backdrop of recent controversies and concerns raised about the security of citizens’ information available in the Commission’s database, Coker-Odusote said no effort would be spared in ensuring the National Identification Number (NIN) Database is not compromised.

The Director General, who was represented by Engineer Lanre Yusuf, Director of Information Technology and Identity Database (IT/IDD) at a press conference to commemorate the day in Abuja, said the Commission would not relent in upping its game for effective mandate delivery to Nigerians.

A statement by Head, Corporate Communications, NIMC, Kayode Adegoke said the Chief Executive also used the occasion to appreciate efforts made by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the National Population Commission (NPC) towards an inclusive digital identity system in Nigeria.

She also highlighted the strategic partnership with the NPC and other government agencies to enrol and issue NIN to all Nigerians, particularly children below the age of 16 years, adding that NIMC plans to access the hinterland to enroll all Nigerians

Engr Coker-Odusote disclosed that over 109 million NINs have so far been issued to Nigerians and legal residents, amongst which children’s enrolment was about 20 percent.

However, while promising that the NIMC would ensure timely and accurate NIN enrolment of all Nigerians and legal residents within the shortest time possible, she hinted that the Commission would soon launch the Improved General Multiple Purpose Card (GMPC) to support the Federal Government’s drive for inclusivity, social safety net program and other programmes targeted at improving the Citizens’ engagement and overall well-being.