President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed relevant government agencies to achieve at least 95 per cent National Identification Number (NIN) enrolment coverage by December 2026.
The President gave the directive on Wednesday during the 8th National Identity Day celebration in Abuja.
He was represented at the event by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.
FG Targets Wider NIN Coverage
President Tinubu said the Federal Government was working to strengthen Nigeria’s digital identity system.
According to him, the government is developing the infrastructure needed to connect the country’s identity system with its growing digital economy.
He said a reliable identity system would support economic activities and improve access to several public and private services.
The President said the theme of this year’s National Identity Day highlighted the importance of connecting Nigeria’s digital ecosystem with economic development.
NIN to Support Digital Services
Tinubu said the government wants Nigerians to have access to a secure digital identity that can be used across different sectors.
These include online businesses, banking and welfare programmes.
The system is also expected to support healthcare, education and transportation services.
According to the President, a secure identity framework would make it easier to verify individuals when accessing important services.
Government Plans Stronger Digital Security
The President also spoke about plans to strengthen the security of Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.
He said the government was accelerating efforts to establish a secure national system for protecting digital documents, electronic signatures and online transactions.
The system is expected to help citizens and businesses verify official documents electronically.
It will also provide additional safeguards for online payments and official government communications.
95% Target Set for December
The President’s December 2026 target means government agencies involved in national identity management are expected to significantly expand enrolment and coverage within the remaining period of the year.
The administration says the wider identity system will form an important part of Nigeria’s digital transformation.
A stronger national identity database could also make it easier for government agencies to deliver services and verify beneficiaries.
The Federal Government is therefore expected to intensify efforts to achieve the 95 per cent NIN enrolment target before the end of December 2026.
