The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Inter-bank Settlement System (NIBSS) has launched an innovative identity solution with payment functionality for all types of social and financial services to be powered by AfriGO, a National domestic card scheme.

The National ID card, layered with verifiable National Identity features, is backed by the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, which mandates NIMC to enrol and issue a General Multipurpose card (GMPC) to Nigerians and legal residents.

According to a statement released yesterday by NIMC, which was signed by its Head, Corporate Communications, Mr. Kayode Adegoke, the card would address the demand for physical identification enabling cardholders prove their identity, access government and private social services, facilitate financial inclusion for disenfranchised Nigerians, empower citizens, as well as encourage increased participation in nation-building.

Only registered citizens and legal residents with the National Identification Number (NIN) would be eligible to request the card.

The card, which would be produced according to ICAO standards, had been positioned as the country’s default national identity card.

In addition to this functionality, cardholders would also be able to use the cards as debit or prepaid cards by linking same to bank accounts of their choice. The card shall enable eligible persons especially those financially excluded from social and financial services have access to multiple government interventions programs.

“In line with data protection regulation and public interest, NIMC remains committed to protecting cardholders’ personal data and will ensure compliance with international standards on data security protocols as security features that protect the confidentiality and safety of users’ information,” the statement said.

Key features of the card include: “Machine-readable Zone (MRZ) in conformation with ICAO for e-passport information; Identity card Issue Date and document number in line with ICAO standard; Additional features include travel, health insurance information, microloans, agriculture, food stamps, transport, and energy subsidies; Nigeria’s quick response code (NQR) containing the national identification number.

“Biometric authentication, such as fingerprint and pictures, as the primary medium for identity verification through the data on the card chip; Offline capability that allows transactions in areas with limited network coverage or zero infrastructure connectivity; Functionality as a debit and prepaid card catering to both banked and unbanked individuals, among other features.”

Request for cards by registered citizens and legal residents would be made available online, at any commercial bank, various agencies or agents participating in multiple programmes and/or any NIMC offices nationwide.

He said that the appointees are Mr Akintunde Sawyerr – Managing Director/CEO, and Mr Frederick Oluwafemi Akinfala – Executive Director, Finance and Administration.

The Presidential spokesman said that Mr Mustapha Iyal was also appointed as the fund’s Executive Director, Operations.

He said that the President expected the appointment would ensure that the necessary apparatuses are put in place for the effective take-off of the Fund for the immediate and lasting benefit of Nigerian students and families. (THISDAY)