The Nigerian Senate has passed a bill that would allow all residents, including foreigners, to obtain a National Identification Number (NIN). The bill, titled National Identity Management Commission (Repeal and Enactment) Bill 2024 (SB. 472), moved to a second reading on Tuesday.
The bill is sponsored by the Deputy Senate President, Barau I. Jibrin, from Kano North. Senator Cyril Fasuyi, representing Ekiti North, led the debate on the bill’s general principles during the Senate session.
Fasuyi explained that the bill aims to update the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act to improve Nigeria’s ID system.
“The objectives of the bill are to expand the scope of registrable persons, enhance data protection, and improve administrative enforcement,” Fasuyi said.
The bill seeks to achieve several key goals:
1. Allow All Residents to Obtain a NIN: The bill proposes to broaden eligibility so that all people living in Nigeria, including foreigners, can get a NIN.
“This will ensure inclusivity and universal coverage for the National ID System,” Fasuyi said.
2. Strengthen Data Protection: The bill introduces strong measures to protect personal data and build trust among citizens.
“We need robust data protection to safeguard privacy and confidentiality,” Fasuyi explained.
3. Improve Enforcement Powers: The bill aims to enhance NIMC’s ability to enforce compliance with NIN registration requirements.
“The new measures will make it easier to ensure timely and accurate registration,” Fasuyi added.
4. Replace Criminal Penalties with Administrative Measures: The bill proposes replacing criminal penalties for non-compliance with administrative measures to avoid undue legal consequences.
“We are moving away from criminal penalties to more manageable administrative enforcement,” Fasuyi said.
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The Senate debated and approved the bill for its second reading, marking a significant step towards reforming Nigeria’s ID management system.
Senator Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session, supported the bill and highlighted its importance for improving the country’s identification system.
The bill will now continue through the legislative process before becoming law.