The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday passed a bill making citizen registration compulsory as part of efforts to reform the country’s identity management system. The legislation seeks to repeal and reenact the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act.
The bill’s passage followed the presentation and review of a report by the Senate Committee on National Identity Card and Population, led by Senator Victor Umeh of Anambra Central.
According to Umeh, the proposed law aims to establish a harmonized and cost-effective identity system that aligns with global best practices, enhances data accuracy, promotes inclusion, and addresses gaps in Nigeria’s identity database.
Once enacted, the bill will also provide for the creation of a centralized database and a commission responsible for registering citizens and issuing identity cards.
The legislation now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration before being sent to the President for assent.
