Nigeria Enacts NIMC Act 2026 to Overhaul Digital Identity System

President Bola Tinubu signed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026 on 26 June 2026, repealing the 2007 legislation and creating a fully digital identity framework for Nigeria. The law makes the NIMC the root certification authority for the country’s public‑key infrastructure and digital public infrastructure, enabling secure, interoperable data exchange across public and private entities.

The act expands the role of the National Identification Number (NIN) as the cornerstone for identity verification, requiring it for passports and other services, and introduces stricter penalties for identity‑related offences. It also aligns with the Nigeria Data Protection Act, bolsters personal data safeguards, and supports the issuance of a General Multi‑Purpose Card for both citizens and legal residents. With more than 130 million Nigerians already enrolled, the legislation aims to reach the World Bank target of 180 million registrations by year‑end, positioning the country to harness its digital economy.