The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has revealed that 2 million processed National Identity Cards remain uncollected across Nigeria.
Speaking at a two-day workshop for online newspaper publishers in Abuja, Peter Iwegbu, Director of Card Management Services at NIMC, explained that many Nigerians did not request their cards, even though they had been produced from the commission’s database. He added that some individuals have relocated from the addresses where they were originally registered, making it difficult to deliver the cards to them.
Iwegbu stated that NIMC has now shifted to issuing new cards strictly on request. He also shared plans to introduce special identity cards for senior citizens aged 60 and above, which are expected to be launched in the first quarter of 2025. These cards will provide access to exclusive services and privileges for older Nigerians.
At the workshop, themed “Building Formidable Bridges With The Digital Media Ecosystem,” Iwegbu said, “Special cards will be issued to senior citizens to access unique services and privileges. We are working on this initiative in collaboration with the Senior Citizens Centre.”
In addition to the senior citizens’ cards, NIMC is preparing to roll out cards specifically designed for low-income and vulnerable individuals. These cards will serve as a tool to distribute palliatives and other forms of assistance. This initiative is also expected to kick off in the first quarter of 2025, with NIMC partnering with about 20 agencies and stakeholders to ensure its success.
Akwitti O. Akwitti, Assistant Director of Operations at NIMC, provided insight into the data on senior citizens in Nigeria. According to NIMC’s database, there are currently 5.8 million Nigerians aged 60 and above, comprising 2.3 million women and 3.5 million men. He noted that this figure is dynamic and continues to grow daily.
Highlighting the achievements of NIMC under its Director General, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, Olusola Ogunrawaye said the commission has revitalized systems and services that had been dormant for over a decade. Additionally, new systems have been deployed nationwide in the past year, improving NIMC’s ability to deliver better services to Nigerians.
These developments aim to enhance the accessibility and utility of national identity cards while ensuring that key demographics, such as senior citizens and vulnerable groups, are adequately catered for.
