President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026 into law, introducing a modern legal framework to strengthen Nigeria’s digital identity system and support the country’s digital economy.
Eko Hot News reports that the new legislation replaces the identity management framework that had guided the country for nearly two decades. The law is designed to improve identity verification, enhance digital services, and promote inclusive access for all Nigerians.
President Tinubu said the Act establishes a secure, modern, and inclusive digital identity framework that aligns with his administration’s vision of transforming Nigeria into a one-trillion-dollar economy.
According to the President, the new law positions the National Identity Management Commission at the centre of Nigeria’s Digital Public Infrastructure and National Public Key Infrastructure.
He explained that the framework will provide trusted digital identities, support secure transactions, enable digital signatures, and strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s expanding digital economy.
The President also stressed that the Act introduces stronger safeguards for the protection of citizens’ personal data. He noted that personal information must not be accessed, processed, or shared outside approved legal procedures and without proper consent.
Tinubu said the legislation reinforces Nigerians’ right to privacy while promoting responsible management of identity information across both public and private institutions.
Under the new Act, the National Identification Number (NIN) will play a more central role in accessing essential services across the country.
The President explained that the NIN will serve as the primary identity requirement for services such as passport applications, voter registration, banking, land transactions, telecommunications, pensions, insurance, tax payments, consumer credit, and other government services.
He reiterated the principle of “One Person, One Identity, One Number,” describing it as a key pillar of Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.
President Tinubu further disclosed that he directed relevant authorities to ensure that the law protects vulnerable citizens, underserved communities, and Nigerians living in the diaspora.
According to him, every Nigerian should have equal access to opportunities through a trusted and secure national identity system, regardless of location or social status.
The Act also strengthens governance within the National Identity Management Commission by expanding representation on its governing board, improving accountability, and enhancing institutional oversight.
In addition, the legislation introduces stricter penalties for identity theft, multiple registrations, unauthorised access, and other forms of misuse of the national identity system.
President Tinubu said his administration remains committed to maintaining the integrity of the identity database and ensuring public confidence in the system.
He commended the National Assembly, the Honourable Minister of Interior, the National Identity Management Commission, development partners, and Nigerians whose contributions supported the successful passage of the legislation.
The President described the NIMC Act 2026 as a landmark reform that will strengthen digital governance, improve service delivery, enhance financial inclusion, and support Nigeria’s journey toward a secure, inclusive, and prosperous digital future.
