In Nigeria, having a national identification card is essential for various purposes, including voting, opening a bank account, getting a driver’s license, and even accessing government services. However, obtaining a national ID card in the country has been a daunting task for many people due to various reasons, including bureaucratic hurdles and long waiting times. In recent years, the Nigerian government has taken steps to streamline the process and make it easier for citizens to obtain their national ID cards.
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) is the agency responsible for issuing national ID cards in Nigeria. To get a national ID card, individuals must first register with the NIMC and undergo the biometric data capture process. The biometric data capture involves taking the individual’s fingerprints, photograph, and signature, which will be used to create a unique digital identity for that person.
To register with the NIMC, individuals must visit any NIMC enrollment center across the country. These enrollment centers are located in various states, local government areas, and even at some public institutions like universities and hospitals. Before visiting an enrollment center, individuals are required to fill out an online pre-enrollment form on the NIMC website. The pre-enrollment form captures basic information about the individual, such as name, date of birth, address, and phone number.
After completing the pre-enrollment form, individuals are required to visit the nearest NIMC enrollment center with the necessary supporting documents. The supporting documents include a valid means of identification, such as a voter’s card, driver’s license, or passport, as well as a proof of address, such as a utility bill or bank statement. Additionally, individuals are required to provide their original birth certificate or declaration of age as proof of identity and date of birth.
Once at the enrollment center, individuals will be guided through the biometric data capture process by NIMC officials. This process involves capturing the individual’s fingerprints, photograph, and signature using specialized equipment. The captured biometric data will be stored securely in the NIMC database and used to generate the individual’s national identification number (NIN) and national ID card.
After completing the biometric data capture process, individuals will be issued a transaction slip as proof of registration. The transaction slip contains the individual’s NIN and serves as a temporary form of identification until the national ID card is ready for collection. The national ID card is usually ready for collection within 1-3 months after registration, although processing times may vary depending on the volume of applications received by the NIMC.
To collect their national ID cards, individuals are required to visit the NIMC enrollment center where they registered and present their transaction slip as well as the original means of identification used during registration. The national ID card will be handed over to the individual after verification of their identity and completion of any necessary paperwork. It is important to note that the national ID card is just as important as the transaction slip and should be kept safe and secure at all times.
In conclusion, obtaining a national ID card in Nigeria is a straightforward process that involves registering with the NIMC, undergoing biometric data capture, and collecting the national ID card once it is ready. By following the steps outlined above and providing the necessary supporting documents, individuals can easily obtain their national ID cards and enjoy the benefits that come with having a valid form of identification. The Nigerian government continues to work towards improving the national ID card issuance process and making it more accessible to all citizens.
