The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has officially transferred its Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) framework to the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) in a significant move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s digital identity ecosystem and enhancing the security of digital transactions nationwide.

The handover, which includes the transfer of technology, assets and ongoing operations, is expected to provide the secure digital trust infrastructure required to support a modern, integrated and reliable national identity system.

Speaking during the formal handover ceremony at NITDA’s headquarters in Abuja, the Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, said the transfer underscores the agency’s commitment to collaborating with institutions using technology to accelerate national development.

Inuwa explained that NITDA had invested significantly in developing the country’s Public Key Infrastructure and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), adding that the agency would continue to provide technical support to ensure a seamless transition to NIMC.

He described PKI as a critical technology that enables the creation, management, verification and authentication of digital identities through digital certificates, ensuring secure and encrypted digital communications and transactions.

According to him, the initiative aligns with the newly enacted NIMC Act, signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which seeks to harmonise identity databases across government institutions and establish the National Identification Number (NIN) as the country’s primary identity verification and authentication platform.

The NITDA boss reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to driving nationwide technology adoption, noting that its mandate extends beyond regulation to supporting innovation, fostering collaboration and promoting inclusive digital transformation.

“As Nigeria’s apex IT regulator, our responsibility is to ensure that every Nigerian is empowered to adopt and benefit from technology. We will continue to support NIMC and every institution working to digitise public services,” he said.

He also stressed that Digital Public Infrastructure is as important to economic development as physical infrastructure, emphasizing the need to ensure such infrastructure remains secure, reliable and accessible.

Responding, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NIMC, Engr. (Dr.) Abisoye Coker-Odusote, commended NITDA for its support and described the newly enacted NIMC Act as a landmark reform that would transform Nigeria’s identity management system.

She explained that the legislation replaces the nearly two-decade-old legal framework established in 2007 and provides the legal foundation for transitioning from a conventional identity database to a modern digital identity ecosystem.

According to her, the new framework is designed to guarantee interoperability, security and efficiency across government and private sector digital platforms while supporting the principle of “one person, one identity.”

Coker-Odusote added that the updated law provides the legal basis for deploying Public Key Infrastructure and other trust frameworks to secure digital identity services and online transactions.

She noted that the transition from traditional identity cards to secure digital credentials would be implemented in phases to safeguard citizens’ data and maintain public confidence in the system.

Both agencies reiterated their commitment to sustained collaboration, noting that while NIMC will continue to manage Nigeria’s foundational identity infrastructure, NITDA will focus on ecosystem development, digital regulation and expanding technology adoption.

They expressed confidence that the partnership would accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda and lay the foundation for a secure, inclusive and innovation-driven digital economy.

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The Commission disclosed the figure in a statement following a courtesy visit to the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, where Director-General Abisoye Coker-Odusote briefed ministry officials on the implementation of the newly enacted NIMC Act 2026.

The latest figure represents an increase of more than 12 million enrolments since October 2025, when the Commission’s records showed about 123.9 million registered NIN holders.

According to Coker-Odusote, the new NIMC Act replaces the 2007 legislation and modernises Nigeria’s digital identity framework by establishing the NIN as the country’s foundational identity under the Federal Government’s “one person, one identity” policy.

She said the legislation also designates NIMC as the root certificate authority for Nigeria’s national digital infrastructure while strengthening data protection, cybersecurity and digital identity management.

Coker-Odusote reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that all Nigerians and legal residents obtain a National Identification Number as quickly as possible.

She added that NIMC will continue collaborating with the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning to expand the use of the NIN in national planning, public service delivery and economic development initiatives.

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President Bola Tinubu has signed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act, 2026 into law, marking a major milestone in Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda with the establishment of a comprehensive legal framework for a secure, inclusive and interoperable national digital identity system.

The new legislation repeals the National Identity Management Commission Act of 2007 and introduces sweeping reforms designed to position Nigeria’s identity management architecture in line with global best practices while strengthening digital governance, cybersecurity and service delivery.

A key feature of the Act is the designation of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) as Nigeria’s Root Certification Authority for the National Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). This places the Commission at the heart of the country’s digital identity ecosystem, giving it responsibility for trusted authentication services, digital signatures, digital certificates, encryption and secure identity verification.

The law also reinforces the National Identification Number (NIN) as Nigeria’s foundational identity credential under the principle of “One Person, One Identity,” while empowering NIMC to facilitate seamless and secure data exchange among government agencies, financial institutions and private-sector organisations.

According to NIMC, the reforms are intended to improve public service delivery, strengthen cybersecurity, promote digital and financial inclusion, enhance the ease of doing business and support the Federal Government’s ambition of building a one-trillion-dollar economy driven by technology and innovation.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Commission described the legislation as the most significant reform of Nigeria’s identity management system since NIMC was established nearly 20 years ago.

It explained that the rapid expansion of digital services, electronic commerce, e-governance, evolving cyber threats and growing data protection requirements necessitated a modern legal framework capable of supporting Nigeria’s digital economy.

Under the new Act, NIMC will oversee the establishment and management of Nigeria’s National Public Key Infrastructure and Digital Public Infrastructure, providing secure authentication systems that enhance trust in digital transactions and online services.

The legislation also introduces stronger safeguards for personal data and privacy in line with the Nigeria Data Protection Act and international standards. It prescribes tougher sanctions against identity-related offences, including multiple registrations, identity theft, impersonation and other fraudulent practices.

To deepen inclusion, the law creates an innovative identification system for vulnerable groups and mandates special measures to facilitate the enrolment of underserved populations, including individuals without permanent residences.

It further recognises both physical and digital identity credentials, all securely linked to an individual’s National Identification Number, thereby expanding opportunities for digital transactions and improving access to public and private services.

NIMC said the implementation of the new framework would enable faster and more secure identity verification, improved interoperability across government and private-sector platforms, broader financial and digital inclusion, and greater efficiency in service delivery.

The Commission commended President Tinubu for what it described as his visionary leadership in signing the landmark legislation, noting that the Act would strengthen the protection of citizens’ personal data, improve national cybersecurity, expand access to essential services and provide a solid foundation for Nigeria’s long-term digital economic growth.

It also expressed appreciation to the leadership and members of the National Assembly, the Federal Ministry of Interior, development partners and other stakeholders whose contributions led to the successful passage of the legislation.

NIMC said it would issue the necessary regulations and implementation guidelines in the coming months while working closely with government institutions, the private sector and development partners to ensure a smooth transition to the new digital identity framework.

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In Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, few public officials have left a mark as visible and measurable as Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami. Long after leaving office as Nigeria’s Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, the policies, reforms, and technological transformation he initiated continue to shape governance, business, innovation, and digital inclusion across the country.

For many observers, Pantami’s years in office represented more than a ministerial tenure; they symbolized the beginning of Nigeria’s deliberate transition into a digitally driven economy. From expanding broadband penetration and deepening digital identity enrollment to promoting indigenous innovation and strengthening the startup ecosystem, his administration pursued an ambitious vision that sought to place Nigeria among Africa’s leading digital economies.

Today, as conversations continue around leadership and development in Gombe State, Pantami’s stewardship in the communications and digital economy sector has become central to discussions about his capacity for higher executive responsibility, particularly in relation to governorship aspirations in the state.

When Pantami assumed office in 2019 under the administration of former President, Late Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s digital economy landscape was still largely fragmented. Internet penetration was growing, yet millions remained excluded from digital opportunities. Government services were mostly manual, digital literacy levels were low, and indigenous innovation struggled for institutional backing.

Pantami entered office with a clear agenda to institutionalize the digital economy as a major pillar of national development.

One of his earliest and most consequential achievements was the development and implementation of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) 2020–2030. The policy provided a structured roadmap for Nigeria’s digital transformation, focusing on infrastructure, digital literacy, service development, emerging technologies, and indigenous innovation.

Under his leadership, the Ministry aggressively pursued broadband expansion across the country. Broadband penetration increased significantly, bringing millions of Nigerians into the digital space and creating new economic opportunities for businesses, students, entrepreneurs, and rural communities.

This expansion became especially crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, when digital connectivity became essential for education, commerce, healthcare, and communication. Many analysts believe Nigeria’s ability to sustain parts of its economy during the lockdown period was aided by the digital infrastructure policies championed during Pantami’s tenure.

Perhaps one of the most defining aspects of Pantami’s legacy was the acceleration of Nigeria’s National Identity Number (NIN) enrollment process.

Before his reforms, national identity registration had progressed slowly for years. However, through strategic reforms, stronger coordination, and nationwide mobilization, millions of Nigerians were enrolled into the digital identity system within a relatively short period.

The integration of NIN with SIM registration, though initially controversial in some quarters, ultimately strengthened Nigeria’s identity management architecture and enhanced national security efforts. It also improved access to banking, telecommunications, and government services.

Beyond security implications, the digital identity drive laid the foundation for financial inclusion and e-governance, ensuring that more Nigerians could participate in the formal economy.

Pantami consistently advocated for local content development and indigenous technological innovation. During his tenure, Nigeria witnessed increased support for startups, young innovators, and technology hubs.

Several initiatives were introduced to empower Nigerian youths with digital skills, software development training, cybersecurity knowledge, and entrepreneurial opportunities. Technology incubation centers received renewed attention, while partnerships with global technology firms expanded opportunities for local talents.

Under his watch, conversations around artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, data protection, and emerging technologies gained stronger policy backing in Nigeria.

He also played a prominent role in promoting the Nigerian startup ecosystem internationally, helping position Nigeria as one of Africa’s leading destinations for technology investment.

Today, Nigerian startups continue to attract billions in investments, while young innovators across the country increasingly see technology as a pathway to economic empowerment, a shift many trace to the policy direction established during his administration.

A major component of Pantami’s vision was digital inclusion. He repeatedly emphasized that digital transformation must not be limited to urban elites alone.

Through multiple interventions, digital literacy programs were expanded to students, civil servants, women, and rural communities. Training initiatives focused on equipping Nigerians with practical digital skills necessary for participation in the modern economy.

This focus on inclusion resonated strongly in Northern Nigeria, where digital access and literacy gaps had historically limited economic participation.

For many young people in Gombe State and across the North-East, Pantami emerged not only as a federal minister but as a symbol of intellectual advancement and technological possibility.

Another major achievement associated with Pantami’s tenure was the strengthening of Nigeria’s cybersecurity architecture.

Recognizing the growing risks associated with digitalization, the Ministry intensified efforts toward cybersecurity awareness, data protection, and cybercrime prevention.

The establishment and implementation of regulatory frameworks for data protection helped position Nigeria for a more secure digital future while enhancing investor confidence in the country’s technology ecosystem.

His administration also emphasized capacity building in cybersecurity, creating opportunities for young Nigerians to participate in one of the world’s fastest-growing sectors.

Supporters often describe Pantami’s leadership style as disciplined, visionary, and result-oriented. Unlike many public officials who focused primarily on rhetoric, Pantami built a reputation for policy implementation, measurable outcomes, and institutional reforms.

His academic background in information technology and cybersecurity gave him technical credibility that distinguished him within government circles. This expertise enabled him to approach governance from a knowledge-driven perspective rather than purely political considerations.

To many admirers, this blend of intellectual depth, administrative competence, and grassroots connection has continued to strengthen his political relevance beyond Abuja.

As political conversations intensify ahead of future elections in Gombe State, Pantami’s achievements at the national level are increasingly being cited as evidence of what focused and visionary leadership can accomplish.

Supporters argue that the same innovation-driven governance model that transformed Nigeria’s digital economy could be replicated in Gombe through investments in education, digital infrastructure, agriculture technology, entrepreneurship, healthcare systems, and youth empowerment.

For a state with a growing youthful population, the appeal of a technologically minded leader resonates strongly among many voters seeking modernization, job creation, and economic diversification.

Pantami’s supporters believe his experience managing complex national reforms positions him uniquely to drive transformational governance at the state level. They point to his ability to coordinate institutions, implement policies, and attract strategic partnerships as qualities necessary for sustainable development in Gombe.

Beyond his public office, Pantami’s rise has carried symbolic significance across Northern Nigeria. His journey from academia to national leadership has inspired many young Nigerians who see education, technology, and innovation as tools for societal transformation.

In a region often associated with developmental challenges, Pantami projected an alternative narrative — one centered on knowledge, digital advancement, and global competitiveness.

This intellectual image continues to strengthen his appeal among professionals, youths, academics, and technocrats who desire leadership grounded in competence and vision.

Years after leaving office, the structures, policies, and reforms initiated under Pantami remain deeply embedded in Nigeria’s digital economy ecosystem.

From digital identity expansion and broadband growth to startup development and cybersecurity reforms, his imprint continues to influence national development conversations.

Whether viewed through the lens of governance, innovation, or public sector reform, Pantami’s legacy as Minister of Communications and Digital Economy remains one of the most defining chapters in Nigeria’s technological evolution.

And as political dynamics continue to evolve in Gombe State, many believe that the digital economy legacy he built nationally may ultimately become one of the strongest foundations for his political aspirations at home.

Abbas Badmus is a staff writer of TechDigest and can be reached via abbasbadmus@gmail.com

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The initiative was announced in a statement issued in Abuja by the Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC, Kayode Adegoke.

According to the commission, the new digital support channels were introduced under the leadership of the Director-General of NIMC, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, as part of efforts to provide Nigerians and legal residents with faster and more accessible customer support services.

Under the arrangement, users can now contact the commission through the official NIMC website or via a dedicated WhatsApp support line.

NIMC said the move forms part of its broader digital transformation programme designed to improve service delivery, reduce overcrowding at enrolment centres and expand access to identity management services nationwide.

For years, Nigerians have faced persistent challenges related to NIN enrolment, corrections and verification, including long queues, delayed responses and difficulties accessing customer support.

The commission stated that the introduction of real-time online support is expected to ease these challenges and improve user experience.

According to NIMC, the initiative also aligns with the digital governance objectives of the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which emphasises technology-driven public service delivery.

The commission further warned Nigerians against fraudsters and fake online platforms, urging the public to use only verified NIMC communication channels for enquiries and support services.

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The NCC revealed this in its 2024 Subscriber/Network Performance Report.

The active subscriber base reduced from 224.7 million in 2023 to 164.9 million by December 2024, representing a 26.6 per cent year-on-year decline.

The commission said the drop was followed the removal of SIMs not linked to verifiable NINs and the rectification of a long-standing subscriber-count discrepancy by a major mobile network operator.

The clean-up was after the FG’s several years of push to link all SIM cards to valid NINs, a policy launched on 4 February 2020 and jointly enforced by the NCC and the National Identity Management Commission. After several deadline extensions between 2023 and 2024, authorities set a final cut-off date of 14 September 2024. From 15 September, any SIM without a verified NIN was automatically deactivated.

According to the report, the teledensity showed the scale of the clean-up reducing from 103.66 per cent in 2023 to 76.08 per cent in 2024.

The commission reported that “internet subscriptions also declined, dropping from 163.8 million to 139.3 million, a loss of 24.6 million users, representing a 14.98 per cent contraction during the period under review.

“Despite the reduction in subscriber numbers, the regulator reported continued progress in coverage expansion. Nigeria achieved over 95 per cent cellular coverage, while broadband penetration rose marginally from 43.71 per cent to 44.43 per cent, supported by widespread access to 3G (89 per cent), 4G (84 per cent) and 5G (13 per cent) networks.”

The report, said the sector was stabilizing according to fresh data, adding that “active telephone subscriptions rose to 173.54 million in September 2025, up from 171.57 million in August, reflecting continued market adjustment after the 2024 clean-up.”

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In a post on its official X page, the commission directed all accredited Diaspora Front-End Partners to activate their licences within 48 hours to continue offering enrolment services. The platform enables Nigerians overseas to enrol for or update their National Identification Number remotely, using authorised agents to securely capture and transmit biometric and supporting documents.

NIMC said enrolment services within Nigeria remain unaffected and advised residents to visit its website for the nearest centre or use its online portal for data modification. The commission also urged Nigerians to download the NINAuth app for secure verification.

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In a statement signed by Head of Corporate Communications Dr. Kayode Adegoke, NIMC explained that switching devices or clearing browser cache may result in access denial or permanent account lockout. Users are allowed only five unlock attempts before requiring a formal unlinking process to regain access.

The Commission urged users to strictly follow the guidelines to avoid disruptions and ensure smooth processing of their NIN modifications. NIMC emphasized that the measures are part of broader efforts to secure personal data and improve service delivery in the identity management ecosystem.

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The warning follows revelations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) that over 2,000 Nigerians had fallen victim to a growing syndicate that pays individuals between ₦1,500 and ₦2,000 in exchange for copies of their personal data. These details are then allegedly resold to Fintech companies for as much as ₦5,000.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, NIMC’s Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Kayode Adegoke, described the development as “a serious security concern” and warned of the grave consequences for those who compromise their data.

“The NIMC will not be held responsible for any personal information shared by individuals, either directly or by proxy, for financial gain or inducement,” the statement read.

Dr. Adegoke reiterated that careless sharing of personal data exposes Nigerians to risks such as identity theft, financial fraud, and other cybercrimes. He urged citizens to treat their NINs with the same level of confidentiality as ATM PINs or passwords.

The commission also called on service providers to verify all NINs before granting access to any services, saying such verification is key to safeguarding user identity.

To help users better control their digital identity, NIMC recommended downloading the NINAuth App via Apple iOS or Google Play Store.

Adegoke concluded by stressing that identity security is a shared responsibility that must not be taken lightly.

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By Shuaib S. Agaka

Just weeks ago, national alarm bells rang over the dangers of SIM recycling—where inactive mobile numbers are reassigned without proper verification, sometimes leading to unauthorized access to bank accounts and sensitive platforms. Now, with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) revealing that thousands of Nigerian youths are trading Bank Verification Numbers (BVNs) and National Identification Numbers (NINs), a far more disturbing pattern is taking shape: Nigeria’s digital identity infrastructure is dangerously compromised.

The implications are staggering. The country’s cybersecurity framework, already riddled with loopholes, is now showing deeper fractures. Trust—the bedrock of any digital system—is evaporating fast. Ironically, while palliatives are now scarce and heavily guarded, Nigerians’ personal data floats freely across black markets and rogue platforms. The very act of surrendering biometric and personal details to the state—under promises of security and service delivery—has become the gateway to exploitation.

Nigeria’s digital identity architecture is built on three core pillars: the NIN managed by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), the BVN under the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and the SIM-NIN linkage enforced by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). Together, these systems were intended to unify identity verification, enhance financial inclusion, curb fraud, and support digital governance.

In theory, it’s a sound framework. In practice, however, it’s falling apart.

Corruption and insider leaks have created cracks in what should be secure systems. Reports show that agents and insiders at registration centers and financial institutions are illicitly selling registered NINs, BVNs, and even biometric data. The EFCC’s findings that over 12,000 youths were caught selling their identities is only the visible tip of a deeper and more institutionalized rot. The black market for digital identities is supplied not just by desperate youth—but also by compromised insiders working within supposedly secure government and financial agencies.

Verification protocols, the first line of defense, are routinely sidestepped. At many third-party registration centers, biometric authentication is either skipped or falsified with fake inputs. Some SIM registration agents reuse previously registered identities to meet sales quotas. These practices undermine the system’s reliability and leave Nigerians exposed to fraud and criminal impersonation.

Even worse is the fragmentation across Nigeria’s digital identity ecosystem. Different institutions—NIMC, CBN, NCC, and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC)—operate in silos, with inconsistent standards and little interoperability. Data isn’t cross-verified in real time, allowing fraud to slip through blind spots between disconnected databases. This dysfunction not only causes inefficiencies but also creates a breeding ground for identity theft, digital loan fraud, and money laundering through online platforms.

Regulatory enforcement is another weak link. While multiple agencies issue guidelines, few conduct rigorous, coordinated audits or impose timely sanctions. Telecoms, fintech startups, and even banks suffer minimal consequences for lapses in data security—even after public breaches. Regulatory response is usually reactive—coming only after scandals break, long after victims have been exploited and criminals have vanished.

The result is a thriving underground economy of stolen identities. Unlike traditional cyberattacks that hack into databases, modern fraudsters simply purchase valid identity profiles and walk through the front doors of banks and digital platforms. They use stolen data to access quick loans, launder money, or hijack social media and financial accounts. Many victims only learn they’ve been compromised when loan default messages arrive or when they are flagged for crimes they didn’t commit. Meanwhile, perpetrators operate anonymously, using basic smartphones and internet access to inflict national-scale damage.

What’s most chilling is the normalization of this digital exploitation. Among tech-savvy but jobless youth, identity theft has become just another hustle. It’s a symptom of a larger socioeconomic failure—one where trust in institutions is low, opportunity is scarce, and crime has become enterprise.

Yet amid this chaos, the root problem lies not just with the fraudsters or fintech firms but with the government itself. It mandated mass biometric registration—under NIN, BVN, and SIM linkages—without building a secure, unified system to safeguard the data. Citizens were made to trust a system that lacks the capacity and accountability to protect them.

There are, however, glimmers of hope. The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) recently convened Nigeria’s first National Cybersecurity Conference, gathering key stakeholders from government, tech, and law enforcement. It was a promising step toward a more coordinated national cybersecurity policy. But symbolic events must now translate into structural reforms.

First, Nigeria must establish a unified digital identity oversight mechanism to harmonize data security standards across NIMC, CBN, NCC, and NDPC. Real-time interoperability and data-sharing protocols must be enforced. Second, all telecoms, fintechs, and banks should undergo mandatory cybersecurity compliance audits. Institutions found to mishandle user data should face stiff penalties, including license suspensions or financial sanctions. Third, a national public education campaign must be launched to raise awareness about digital identity theft and promote cyber hygiene at the grassroots.

Ultimately, Nigeria’s digital future will not be secured by technology alone. It will be secured by building trust—trust that personal data will be respected, identities protected, and breaches punished. Until then, Nigeria’s digital economy remains a house built on shaky foundations, where the trade of identities is more seamless than access to palliatives, and fraudsters are more empowered than the citizens they exploit.

Shuaib S. Agaka is a tech journalist based in Kano State

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