By Peace Erewunmi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026 into law, introducing a new legal framework aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s digital identity system, enhancing cybersecurity, and accelerating the country’s digital transformation agenda.

The new legislation repeals and replaces the NIMC Act of 2007, establishing a modern identity management framework designed to align Nigeria’s digital ecosystem with global best practices and the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy.

A major feature of the law is the designation of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) as the Root Certification Authority for Nigeria’s National Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). This places the commission at the center of secure digital identity verification, authentication, and electronic trust services across both government and private-sector platforms.

According to NIMC Director-General, Dr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, the Act reinforces the National Identification Number (NIN) as the foundation of identity verification under the principle of “One Person, One Identity.” The law also recognizes both physical and digital identity credentials, allowing for more secure and seamless access to services.

The legislation empowers NIMC to facilitate secure and interoperable data exchange among government agencies, financial institutions, and private organizations, creating a stronger foundation for digital governance and service delivery.

President Tinubu described the new law as a significant step toward building a trusted digital economy, noting that Nigeria’s previous identity management framework had operated for nearly two decades under legislation drafted for a different era. He stated that the reform would support secure transactions, digital inclusion, and economic growth.

The Act also introduces stricter penalties for identity-related crimes, including identity fraud, unauthorized data access, and other offences that threaten the integrity of the national identity system. These provisions are intended to strengthen public trust and improve the protection of personal information.

Government officials say the reform will contribute to improved public service delivery, enhanced national security, greater financial inclusion, and the development of a robust digital economy capable of supporting Nigeria’s long-term economic aspirations.

The signing ceremony took place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja and was attended by senior government officials, lawmakers, and representatives of development partners, marking what stakeholders described as a landmark moment in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.