National Identification Number (NIN) Enrolment Surpasses 101 Million

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has recently released data revealing a significant rise in enrolment for the National Identification Number (NIN) in Nigeria. As of June 26, 2023, the total number of enrolments reached a staggering 101 million, indicating a growth of 1 million new enrolments within the past month alone. This article explores the distribution of enrolments across states, gender disparities, and the challenges Nigeria faces in achieving the World Bank's target under the Digital Identification for Development (ID4D) project.

1. Surging Enrolments: Lagos and Kano Lead the Way

The enrolment figures indicate that Lagos State has emerged as the frontrunner in NIN enrolments, with an impressive 11 million Nigerians captured within the state. Following closely is Kano State, boasting 8.9 million registered NIN holders. These two populous states have consistently maintained the lead in NIN enrolments since the inception of the exercise, as per data from the National Bureau of Statistics.

2. Gender Distribution: Male Dominance Persists

A closer examination of the enrolment data reveals a gender disparity, with males accounting for 57.3 million, or 56.76%, of the total enrollees. Conversely, females constitute 43.7 million, or 43.24%, of the enrolment pool. This discrepancy underscores the need for targeted efforts to encourage more female participation in NIN registration and ensure a balanced representation in the national database.

3. Regional Disparities: Top and Bottom States

In addition to Lagos and Kano, several other states have also made significant strides in NIN enrolments. Kaduna stands out with 6.2 million enrolments, followed by Ogun with 4.2 million, and Oyo with 3.9 million. Notably, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) recorded 3.4 million enrolments, while both Katsina and Rivers registered 3.4 million and 3 million respectively. Rounding out the top ten are Bauchi with 2.7 million and Delta with 2.6 million NIN enrolments.

Conversely, the states with the lowest number of NIN issued include Akwa-Ibom and Imo at 1.7 million each, Kogi at 1.69 million, Enugu at 1.62 million, and Yobe at 1.57 million. Additionally, Taraba recorded 1.45 million, Cross River 1.15 million, Ekiti 1 million, Ebonyi 804,592, and Bayelsa 635,277 NIN enrolments, according to NIMC data.

The Challenges Ahead: Meeting World Bank's ID4D Project Targets

Nigeria's recent surge in NIN enrolments brings the country closer to achieving the targets set by the World Bank's Digital Identification for Development (ID4D) project. However, significant challenges remain on the horizon. The project mandates Nigeria to issue 148 million NIN by June 2024. With the current monthly enrolment average of 1 million, meeting this target within the given timeframe appears increasingly challenging.

To achieve the ambitious target, an additional 47 million people need to enrol and obtain NIN over the next 12 months. Without a substantial increase in monthly enrolments, Nigeria may struggle to attain the set goal. Moreover, the ID4D project sets forth additional objectives, including issuing NIN to at least 65 million female Nigerians by June 1, 2024, as well as providing 50 million NIN to children under the age of 16.

The National Identification Number (NIN) enrolment has crossed the remarkable milestone of 101 million, reflecting a notable surge in registrations. Lagos and Kano states continue to lead the way, with males constituting the majority of enrollees. However, the challenge lies in meeting the World Bank's ID4D project targets, requiring Nigeria to issue 148 million NIN by June 2024. As the country moves forward, addressing gender disparities and accelerating enrolment rates will be vital in achieving a comprehensive and inclusive digital identification system.