Nigeria Introduces Strict New Identity Management Act

The five-year jail term and other highlights of NIMC Act 2026 are now law in Nigeria.

President Bola Tinubu signed the National Identity Management Commission Act 2026 into law on Friday, promising a more modern and secure digital identity infrastructure for all Nigerians.

According to the President, the new legislation introduces stricter penalties for identity-related offences and strengthens data protection. 'I will not allow the data of Nigerians to be treated carelessly,' he said during the signing ceremony. 'This Act aligns our identity system with the Nigerian Data Protection Act.'

Under the new law, Nigerians are required to have a National Identification Number (NIN) for a wide range of public and private transactions, including passport applications, voter registration, bank accounts, land transactions, telecommunications services, pensions, insurance, tax payments, consumer credit and access to government services.

The Act also reconstitutes NIMC's Governing Board with representatives from 14 key government agencies. President Tinubu said the new board will ensure the commission's independence and effectiveness in implementing the identity management system.

But what are the implications of these stricter penalties? What are the new measures for vulnerable Nigerians? We dug deeper into the law to find out.

One person. One identity. One number

According to President Tinubu, the new law introduces the General Multipurpose Card. This is a single, versatile identity credential for verification across every sector of Nigerian life.

The President also announced the introduction of an Identifier system for vulnerable persons, including those without permanent residences. This system will ensure that they are enrolled in the national identity system.

However, critics have expressed concern that the new law may exacerbate existing inequalities. For instance, some Nigerians may not have access to the technology or infrastructure required to register for the NIN.

Tinubu, however, said the Act provides special measures to ensure that vulnerable and underserved Nigerians are enrolled in the national identity system.

In a statement, he said, 'I gave specific instructions that this law must protect the most vulnerable among us. I'm proud to say that it does.'

The new law marks a significant shift in Nigeria's approach to identity management. By reconstituting NIMC's Governing Board and requiring a NIN for various transactions, the government aims to improve the efficiency and security of its identity management system.

But what does this mean for Nigerians? How will it affect their daily lives?

In the next few months, Nigerians will need to register for the NIN and obtain the General Multipurpose Card. This card will serve as a proof of identity for all transactions.

The implementation of the new law will involve a series of public enlightenment campaigns to educate Nigerians about the requirements and benefits of the system.

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has already begun the process of reconstituting its Governing Board.

According to the President, the new board will comprise representatives from key government agencies, including the Independent National Electoral Commission, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Central Bank of Nigeria, National Population Commission, and the Office of the National Security Adviser.

The President also said that the commission now has court-authorised powers to investigate offences, conduct searches, seize evidence, decrypt data, and arrest suspects.

The law introduces stiffer sanctions against identity fraud and related offences. Fines of up to ₦20 million for corporate bodies and minimum five years' imprisonment for unauthorised access, multiple registration, and impersonation.

President Tinubu commended the National Assembly, the Ministry of Interior, development partners, NIMC management and staff, and other stakeholders for their contributions to the passage of the legislation.

Together, we are building a more secure, inclusive, and digital Nigeria.