The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), in collaboration with the Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE), have agreed to work together to strengthen public trust, deepen transparency, and promote inclusive access to digital identity in Nigeria.

The two-day strategic Roundtable workshop in Abuja with the themed “Building Trust in Digital Identity: Strengthening Media Partnerships for a Secure and Inclusive Ecosystem,” hopes to build while partnering the media to sustain public awareness and accountability.

The Director General/CEO of NIMC, Engr. (Dr.) Abisoye Coker-Odusote who was represented by Dr. Alvan Ikoku, commended the vital role the media plays in shaping public discourse, promoting government transparency, and serving as a bridge between policy and the people.

“You have reported our highs and lows, challenged us to do better, and supported us with your platforms. Today, I ask that we deepen this collaboration to ensure every Nigerian understands the value of identity, their rights, and the impact of digital inclusion,” she noted.

Digital Identity Transformation: From Fragmentation to Inclusion

Engr. Coker-Odusote who highlighted the transformation of Nigeria’s identity ecosystem from a fragmented and exclusionary system to a people-centred, secure, and unified platform stated that enrolment in the National Identity Number (NIN) system has grown from 72.7 million in 2022 to over 122 million by July 2025,which representative a 49% increase in just over three years.

She opines that, “the increase has enabled millions of Nigerians to access services in education, health, agriculture, and financial sectors, further empowering the country’s underserved populations.

“The Commission’s investment in digital infrastructure, automation, and backend upgrades has improved service delivery, with special tools such as the NINAuth mobile app, Self-Service Enrolment app, and Contactless Biometric Solutions already deployed”, she said.

She said the Commission has also strengthened collaboration with line agencies responsible for data sharing.

“Strategic collaborations with critical MDAs such as NHIS, FIRS, JAMB, INEC, CBN, NCC, NCoS, FRSC, and PENCOM were showcased. These partnerships have streamlined identity verification processes across corrections, education, health, and pension services. NIN-enabled systems now support access to student loans (via NELFUND), agricultural subsidies, enterprise funding (SMEDAN, BOI), and workers’ compensation (NSITF), among others”.

On the much awaited card, Coker-Odusote enjoined Nigerians to look forward to October for the release of multi-functional ID card

“The upcoming General Multipurpose Card (GMPC), expected in October 2025, will provide citizens with a secure, multifunctional ID that allows seamless access to government services, banking, health insurance, and digital platforms”.

In his address, Mr. Shola Akingboye, President of the Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE), lauded NIMC’s efforts at providing the foundational ID and reiterated the media’s commitment to transparency and public education.

“The right of Nigerians to know is essential for governance. We assure NIMC of our unwavering support as watchdogs and partners in this national assignment,” he stated.

Mr. Akingboye acknowledged previous roundtable engagements, including one in November 2024, and emphasised the importance of sustained dialogue between NIMC and the online media space to dispel misinformation and educate citizens about the value of identity management.