The World Bank has set a new target of 180 million National Identification Numbers (NIN) to be issued to Nigerians as part of the Digital Identity for Development (ID4D) project.
This is an increase from the previous target of 148 million, which was not achieved by the initial deadline of June 2024.
As of October 2024, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) reported that 115 million Nigerians and legal residents had received their NINs.
Nonetheless, the World Bank noted that nearly half of the Nigerian population, especially women, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups, are still without digital identification.
This gap has made it difficult for many Nigerians to access government services, financial inclusion, and fully engage in the digital economy. To address this, the ID4D project has implemented targeted initiatives aimed at enrolling these disadvantaged populations.
The project, which received a request for a three-year extension from the Nigerian government in May 2024, is now set to run until December 2026. The extension is part of a two-stage restructuring plan that includes an initial six-month extension, granted in June 2024, and a subsequent 24-month extension.
This restructuring aims to ensure that critical activities are completed, including the development of an open-source, interoperable national identity management system.
The World Bank has allocated a total of $430 million for the project, with contributions from the International Development Association (IDA), the French Development Agency (AFD), and the European Investment Bank (EIB).
As of now, over half of the funds have been disbursed, and progress is being made towards meeting the final disbursement conditions, which include amendments to the NIMC Act to promote inclusivity and non-discrimination.
The National Assembly is expected to vote on the proposed amendments in early 2025, which will unlock the remaining funding.
In addition to the legal reforms, the ID4D project is supporting the development of essential legislation, such as the Cybersecurity Bill and the Nigeria Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill, which are essential for enhancing Nigeria’s participation in the global digital economy.
The project is also working on a national data-sharing framework to ensure secure online transactions for both individuals and businesses.
The World Bank commended Nigeria for its work in modernising the country’s identity management systems, noting that the expansion of the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) is a key achievement.
Once completed in 2025, ABIS will be able to store up to 250 million NINs, enabling more efficient enrollment and management of identities.
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