A bill to allow Nigerians living abroad to obtain the National Identity Number passed the second reading at the Senate on Tuesday.
The bill, sponsored by the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, was first read on June 5.
It seeks to repeal the National Identity Management Commission Act 2007.
It provides for the establishment of a National Identity Database, and the NIMC is charged with the responsibilities of the maintenance of the national database, the registration of individuals, and the issuance of identity credentials.
It seeks to enhance the efficiency and inclusivity of the Identity Management System through comprehensive provisions, designed to improve and update the extant provisions in line with global best practices.
In his lead debate, Jibrin said the proposed legislation was crucial for the socio-economic and political development of the country, as well as to national security and an effective identity management system.
He said the bill would streamline the sharing of personal data, incorporating robust data protection measures to safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of individuals’ data.
He said the bill would “enhance administrative enforcement powers.”
“The efficiency and effectiveness of the NIMC’s enforcement powers will ensure timely and accurate compliance with ID registration requirements.
“Removing Criminalisation for non-use of NIN: Replacing criminal penalties with administrative enforcement measures to encourage compliance with NIN usage requirements without imposing undue legal consequences on individuals,” Jibrin said.