NIPOST launches nationwide digital postcode system in Nigeria

The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has launched the National Digital Alphanumeric Postcode System, a nationwide initiative to provide unique 11-character identifiers for individual buildings. Replacing the previous six-digit numeric system introduced in 1986, this new framework uses letters and numbers to represent various geographic layers, from states and local government areas down to specific delivery units.

The system utilizes Geographic Information System (GIS) technology to link records to mapped locations, aiming to reduce reliance on informal landmarks and street names. The initiative is intended to support various sectors, including e-commerce, logistics, banking, and emergency response, by providing a standardized method for address verification and property identification.

The framework draws on geographic data collected by the National Population Commission between 2014 and 2022. While the system allows users to search for locations using street names or aliases, some early users have reported technical challenges, such as neighboring properties appearing to share identical identifiers or certain buildings being missing from the database.