The National Identify Management Commission (repeal and enactment) Bill 2024 has scaled second reading at the Senate.
The bill seeks to allow all persons, including foreigners residents in Nigeria, the right to obtain and use National Identification Number (NIN).
Sponsored by deputy Senate president, Barau Jibrin, the bill also seeks to replace criminal penalties with administrative enforcement measures to encourage compliance with NIN usage requirements without imposing undue legal consequences on individuals.
Presenting the lead debate during plenary on Tuesday, Senator Cyril Fasuyi said the bill seeks to repeal the extant Act and enact a new regulatory regime for the National Identity Management Commission.
“It is aimed at enhancing the NIMC’s regulatory capacity to enable more effective oversight and regulation of the Nigeria ID System,” Fasuyi said.
“The objectives of the bill are as follows: (a) Expanding the scope of registrable persons by broadening the eligibility criteria for registration under the Nigeria ID System to ensure inclusivity and universal coverage.
“This allows all persons resident in Nigeria to obtain a National Identification Number (NIN) and utilise it as a recognised form of identification.
“(b) Streamlining the sharing of personal data by incorporating robust data protection measures to not only safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of individuals’ data but also to foster trust among citizens in the landing of their information.
“(c) Enhancing administrative enforcement powers. The efficiency and effectiveness of the NIMC’s enforcement powers will ensure timely and accurate compliance with ID registration requirements.
“(d) Removing Criminalization for Non-Use of NIN: Replacing criminal penalties with administrative enforcement measures to encourage compliance with NIN usage requirements without imposing undue legal consequences on individuals.”
The senators debated and passed the bill after it was put to a voice vote by Barau, who presided over plenary.
