Nigeria's NIMC Act 2026 to Digitally Identify 80 Million Learners

The Federal Government of Nigeria is set to provide digital identities to approximately 80 million learners as part of the newly enacted National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026. Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, emphasized that the education sector will be a major driver of Nigeria's digital future during a meeting in Abuja with Engr. Bisoy Coker Odusote, the Director General of NIMC.

The Minister reaffirmed the commitment to collaborate with NIMC to strengthen identity management and improve educational planning, which is crucial for national development. The NIMC Act 2026 is seen as a significant milestone in building trust in Nigeria's digital ecosystem, enhancing service delivery, and improving citizen access to government services.

The act establishes a legal framework for digital public infrastructure and aims to integrate 120 million Nigerians into the national identity database. The initiative is expected to support evidence-based policymaking and better resource allocation in the education sector.