NIN, an Immense Value to Nigerians
The National Identification Number (NIN) is fast gaining acceptance by Nigerians and Institutions
The National Identification Number is a set of 11 non- intelligent numbers randomly chosen and assigned to an individual at the completion of enrolment into the National Identity Database (NIDB). The NIN is used to tie all records about an individual in the database and is also used to establish or verify his/her identity.
According to section 27 (1) and (2) of the NIMC Act, 2007, transactions including, applications for, and issuance of an International Passport; opening of individual and/or group bank accounts, all consumer credits; purchase of insurance policies; the purchase, transfer and registration of land by any individual; National Health Insurance Scheme, such transactions that have social security implications, registration of voters, payment of taxes, and pensions, etc., will be done with the NIN.
Government Agencies like the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Nigerian Hajj Commission etc., have adopted the mandatory use of NIN, it is a requirement for renewal and issuance of a Passport, Driver’s license and all banking transactions etc.
Economically, The NIN possess numerous benefits, it is a gateway to economic growth and viability, taxation and revenue generation process will be easier because identity will be easy to prove and track within the National Identity Management System (NIMS) . Consumer credit system will also be easily accessible with the NIN, Many Nigerians that have been shortchanged due to unverifiable identity will now have access to credit.
Access to social benefits like Health care, Education, Employment etc. will require the NIN, this will enable Government track its population ratio to the facilities available, and make upgrades and changes where necessary, it will aid in proper planning.
With the current security challenges faced in the country, Identity Management is critical, the National Identity Database will be easily accessible by security Agencies, making it easy to track criminals, and also prevent the use of ghost and multiple identities.
The NIN will create a pathway for credible elections accepted by Nigerians, the issues plaguing the electoral process like underage voting, Multiple Voting, Alien voting, will be curtailed with the use of the NIN.
Although enrollment for the NIN is a continuous process, it is pertinent for all Nigerians and Legal residents to ensure they get enrolled into the National Identity Database and obtain the NIN, as Citizens and Stakeholders it is our duty to work towards achieving success of the National Identity Management System for National growth and development.
Jamila Mohammad
NIMC
