Tinubu Signs NIMC Act 2026 Into Law
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed the NIMC Act 2026 into law. The President announced the signing in a statement on Saturday. He described the new law as a modern, secure, inclusive, and digital identity framework for Nigeria. The Act replaces the old identity system that had operated under a law written for a different era for nearly twenty years.
President Tinubu said the new Act positions the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) at the heart of Nigeria’s Digital Public Infrastructure. It also strengthens the National Public Key Infrastructure. The law provides the trust foundation for verified identities, secure transactions, digital signatures, and the wider digital economy.
The Act also strengthens the protection of citizens’ data, the President stated. Personal information cannot be accessed carelessly or used outside its original purpose. The privacy of Nigerians must be protected, and this law makes that clear. Consent and due legal process must be respected.
The National Identification Number (NIN) will now serve as a stronger gateway to critical services. These include passports, voter registration, bank accounts, land transactions, telecommunications, pensions, insurance, tax payments, consumer credit, and government services. The President emphasized: “One person. One identity. One number.
President Tinubu gave specific instructions that the law must protect the vulnerable, the underserved, and Nigerians in the Diaspora. He said no Nigerian should be locked out of opportunity because they lack a trusted identity. The Act strengthens governance and expands representation on the NIMC Board.
The new law introduces tougher penalties for identity theft, multiple registration, unauthorised access, and abuse of the system. The President declared: “We will not tolerate those who forge identities, steal the identities of others, or exploit the system.” The Act also improves accountability across the identity management system.
President Tinubu commended the National Assembly for their support in delivering this landmark legislation. He also thanked the Honourable Minister of Interior, NIMC, development partners, and all Nigerians whose support helped deliver the Act. He described the law as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda at work.
The signing of the NIMC Act 2026 marks a historic milestone in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey. The new law provides a modern identity framework that protects citizens’ data and enables access to critical services. President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to building a more secure, inclusive, and prosperous Nigeria. This legislation positions Nigeria on the path to becoming a one-trillion-dollar economy.
