President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026 into law, marking a major milestone in Nigeria's digital transformation and identity management system.
Announcing the development, President Tinubu described the legislation as a historic reform that replaces the nearly two-decade-old legal framework governing Nigeria's national identity system. According to him, the previous law was designed for a different era and could no longer meet the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy.
The President said the new Act establishes a modern, secure, inclusive and technology-driven identity framework that aligns with his administration's vision of transforming Nigeria into a one-trillion-dollar economy.
NIMC Becomes the Backbone of Nigeria's Digital Economy
Under the new law, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) will serve as the foundation of Nigeria's Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and National Public Key Infrastructure (PKI).
This means NIMC will provide trusted digital identity verification for citizens and residents while enabling secure online transactions, digital signatures, electronic authentication, and other digital services essential for economic growth.
The President noted that the strengthened identity infrastructure would improve confidence in digital transactions across both the public and private sectors.
Stronger Protection for Citizens' Data
One of the key highlights of the new Act is its emphasis on data privacy and security.
Tinubu stated that citizens' personal information can no longer be accessed, processed or shared without lawful authority, consent or a legitimate purpose. The legislation introduces stricter safeguards to prevent misuse of personal data and reinforces accountability in the handling of identity information.
According to the President, protecting the privacy of Nigerians remains a central objective of the new law.
National Identification Number to Unlock More Services
The Act significantly expands the importance of the National Identification Number (NIN) by making it the primary gateway for accessing numerous public and private services.
These include:
- Passport applications
- Voter registration
- Opening and operating bank accounts
- Land registration and property transactions
- SIM registration and telecommunications services
- Pension administration
- Insurance services
- Tax payments
- Consumer credit
- Government social programmes and public services
Reaffirming the government's vision, Tinubu declared:
"One person. One identity. One number."
Inclusion for Every Nigerian
The President disclosed that he specifically directed that the legislation must ensure that vulnerable citizens, underserved communities and Nigerians living in the Diaspora are not excluded from obtaining trusted digital identities.
He stressed that every Nigerian should have equal access to opportunities regardless of location or social status.
Tougher Penalties for Identity Fraud
The NIMC Act 2026 also introduces stronger governance measures and expands representation on the Commission's governing board to improve transparency and accountability.
In addition, the law prescribes tougher penalties for offences including:
- Identity theft
- Multiple or fraudulent registrations
- Unauthorised access to identity databases
- Misuse or abuse of identity information
President Tinubu warned that his administration would not tolerate individuals or organisations involved in identity fraud or manipulation of Nigeria's identity management system.
Appreciation to Stakeholders
The President commended the National Assembly for passing the bill and acknowledged the contributions of the Honourable Minister of Interior, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), development partners and Nigerians whose support made the legislation possible.
He described the Act as a landmark achievement under the Renewed Hope Agenda, saying it would strengthen national security, improve service delivery, deepen financial inclusion and accelerate Nigeria's digital economy.
Twisdic Info Analysis: The signing of the NIMC Act 2026 is expected to modernise Nigeria's identity ecosystem by making the National Identification Number central to government services and digital commerce. Experts believe the reform will enhance cybersecurity, reduce identity fraud, promote financial inclusion, improve tax administration and support the country's transition to a fully digital economy.