An innovative e-ID card system with integrated payment and social security features is the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) plan by the first quarter of 2025, reports MJConcept TV News.
Dr. Peter Iwegbu, Director of the Card Management Services Department disclosed these during the second day of the NIMC roundtable with online publishers held in Abuja.
The new card program, designed to meet one of NIMC’s core mandates, is aimed at empowering Nigerians and legal residents to securely participate in the growing digital economy.
“This initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive on the mandatory use of the National Identification Number (NIN) and the Commission’s strategic roadmap under the leadership of its Director-General, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote.
The e-ID card, under the General Multi-Purpose Card (GMPC) scheme, is designed to offer multiple variants to address various use cases,” Dr Peter Iwegbu said., including:
Among other features of the multipurpose card are that it will function as a debit or prepaid card, supporting cashless transactions at ATMs, POS terminals, online merchants, and via contactless payments.
Government-to-People (G2P) Programs: Enabling the direct disbursement of government interventions, including palliatives, grants, and transportation subsidies.
Social and Financial Inclusion: Special features to cater to vulnerable populations, including senior citizens and the unbanked.
Cross-Border Capabilities: Integration with ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Travel Card (ENBIC) in collaboration with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
He added that the e-ID card offers unparalleled advantages for users:
Secure and verifiable digital and physical identity. Access to social and financial services, particularly for the underbanked and unbanked. Capability to conduct transactions in areas with limited network coverage using offline functionality. Integration with eNaira, virtual wallets, and digital tokens, allowing seamless payments. Support for up to 32 wallets for accessing multiple Government programs.
MJConcept TV News reports that the scheme will also deliver significant benefits for the Government among which are:
Reducing financial exclusion which aligns with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s financial inclusion goals.
Enhancing the digital economy, promoting cashless transactions and electronic payments. Streamlining service delivery. Provides a direct and interoperable platform for government services. Cost reduction which leverages domesticated card charges, reducing foreign exchange exposure.
“The implementation of the e-ID card is in its advanced stages and will include: Immediate Needs Fulfillment: Catering to vulnerable Nigerians through secure platforms for accessing government services.
National ID Activation: Bank-enabled National ID cards will be available within two months for citizens willing to pay for expedited services.”
Digital Card Options: Virtual cards will also be provided for users preferring digital formats.