The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday passed a bill for a second reading that proposes granting all individuals, including foreigners residing in Nigeria, the right to obtain and use a National Identification Number (NIN).
The bill, titled ‘National Identity Management Commission (Repeal and Enactment) Bill 2024 (SB. 472)’, was sponsored by Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin from Kano North.
The legislation aims to replace criminal penalties with administrative measures to promote compliance with NIN requirements, avoiding imposing severe legal consequences on individuals.
Senator Cyril Fasuyi from Ekiti North presented the lead debate on the bill’s general principles during the plenary session, which was presided over by Senator Barau Jibrin, the sponsor.
Senator Fasuyi said the bill seeks to repeal the extant Act and enact a new regulatory regime for the National Identity Management Commission, adding it is aimed at enhancing the NIMC’s regulatory capacity to enable more effective oversight and regulation of the Nigeria ID System.
The senator said, “The objectives of the bill are as follows: (a) Expanding the scope of registrable persons by broadening the eligibility criteria for registration under the Nigeria ID System to ensure inclusivity and universal coverage.
“This allows all persons resident in Nigeria to obtain a National Identification Number (NIN) and utilise it as a recognised form of identification.
“(b) Streamlining the sharing of personal data by incorporating robust data protection measures to not only safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of individuals’ data but also to foster trust among citizens in the landing of their information.
“(c) Enhancing administrative enforcement powers. The efficiency and effectiveness of the NIMC’s enforcement powers will ensure timely and accurate compliance with ID registration requirements.
“(d) Removing Criminalization 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.”
The senators, thereafter,debated and passed the bill.
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