The World Bank has approved a two-year extension for Nigeria’s Digital Identity for Development (ID4D) project, extending the deadline from December 31, 2024, to December 31, 2026. This decision follows a request by the Nigerian government for additional time to meet its target of issuing 180 million National Identification Numbers (NINs), after missing the initial goal of 148 million by June 2024.
As of October 2024, the National Identity Management Commission reported that 115 million NINs had been issued to Nigerian citizens and legal residents. However, significant gaps remain, particularly among women, persons with disabilities, and disadvantaged groups who still lack access to digital identification. This has hindered their ability to access government services, participate in the digital economy, and benefit from financial inclusion.
The extension aims to allow Nigeria to complete critical activities and ensure the achievement of the project’s objectives. The World Bank acknowledged the progress made so far and emphasized the importance of targeted enrollment efforts to reach vulnerable populations
The ID4D project is backed by $430 million in funding, comprising $115 million from the World Bank’s International Development Association, $100 million from the French Development Agency, and $215 million from the European Investment Bank. To date, 53.16% of these funds have been disbursed.
Additionally, progress has been made in amending the NIMC Act to create a more inclusive legal framework. The amendment has passed two readings in the National Assembly, with the final reading expected in January 2025 and presidential approval anticipated by February 2025.
With the new deadline, the project aims to expand access to digital identity, enabling more Nigerians to benefit from economic and social inclusion while strengthening the country’s position in digital transformation across Africa.
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