NIMC self-service Application: Introducing the new paradigm shift

By David Joel Alli

As the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) unveiled its self-service application, many Nigerians can now access essential identity-related services in a country where bureaucratic hurdles have long disrupted efficient access to essential services for many years. But now, thanks to the innovation of the NIMC self-service application, the story has changed.

This app is a significant step towards enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of identity management services in Nigeria. With the help of this innovative platform, Nigerians would begin to experience a newfound convenience and speed in updating or modifying their data such as Change of Name, Address, Telephone number and importantly Date of Birth on the web-based app. This luxurious ease of using your device, in the most comfortable angle in your house or at the workplace to modify your NIN and other services through the app has made the technological initiative a game changer.

While NIMC under the leadership of Engineer Abisoye Coker-Odusote, deserves applause for establishing the framework for the enrolment of Nigerians within and outside the country and for enrolling over 100 million Nigerians in its database, the idea of a self-service solution makes it an absolute masterstroke. The technology marks a significant advancement, offering citizens a convenient and secure platform to update or modify their information online.

NIMC and the Ministry of Interior had on September 16, 2023, launched the Self-Service application which would be accessible from anywhere in the World, would enable Nigerians in the Diaspora to modify and validate their digital identity without the need to travel back to Nigeria.

To lay it in proper perspective, this technology comes at a crucial time for the country, as the government seeks to accelerate efforts to enroll all eligible citizens in the national identity database. This will help the federal government to better plan and deliver essential and welfare services, combat identity fraud, and promote financial inclusion.

With the introduction of the new technology, there has been anticipation and speculation about its capabilities, particularly in the context of National Identification Number (NIN) enrollment and registration. However, it is essential to clarify that while the NIMC self-service web application offers only modification of data, it currently does not support self-service NIN enrollment or registration.

The NIMC self-service web application serves as a platform for individuals to access various services related to their National Identity Number. Users can perform tasks such as updating and modifying information. This feature aims to streamline the process of managing one's identity information and enhance the overall user experience. However, the ability to enroll for an NIN through the self-service web application is not yet available.

It is crucial to understand that NIN enrollment involves a comprehensive process that requires biometric data capture and verification to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the identity information stored in the NIMC database. As such, the self-service web application currently focuses on modifying existing NIN records rather than initiating new enrollments. Despite the current limitations, it is worth noting that NIMC is continuously working towards expanding and enhancing its services to meet the growing demand for identity management solutions in Nigeria. NIN enrollment and registration are indeed in the pipeline, with plans underway to introduce a more streamlined and accessible process for individuals to obtain their NINs.

Checks reveal that the self-service application offers a range of services. The self-service modifications allow for change of Name, Phone Number, Date Of Birth and address. Ditto for the fundamental security features of the self-service modification application for data identification, security, and protection. They include face match and NIN validation that disallows multiple registrations on the same device. This comprehensive suite of features has been lauded given its potential to streamline operations and empower individuals across the nation.

The application aims to provide citizens with a convenient platform to manage their identity information without the need to visit physical NIMC offices. This not only saves time and resources for citizens but also reduces the burden on NIMC staff and infrastructure, allowing them to focus on more critical tasks.
Before now, Nigerians had constantly faced the rigors of trooping to NIMC enrollment centers in person to lodge complaints of any kind, which often led to long queues and delays. With the self-service application, citizens can initiate any modification functionalities from the comfort of their homes, providing basic information. Users can now easily update their address, phone number, or other details online, reducing paperwork and processing times.

This, however, makes the whole process stress-free. Flexible. Individuals now have the opportunity to take control of their identity-related tasks with greater ease and speed. This shift marks a fundamental change in the way identity services are delivered, placing accessibility squarely in the hands of the people.

Since its rollout, the NIMC self-service application has garnered widespread acclaim from users around the country who have lauded its user-friendly interface, seamless functionality, and ability to streamline previously cumbersome processes. Designed to enable individuals to manage their national identity cards from the comfort of their own homes, the app is a fresh of breath air in the government's efforts to modernize identity management systems and enhance citizen services.

As more Nigerians embrace the NIMC self-service application, the positive feedback continues to pour in, underscoring its transformative impact, the same way others have raised questions asking if Nigeria is ripe enough for this kind of technology.

While I welcome the idea of the innovation to unlock the power of self-service, we must, however, be cautious of its attendant security risks. Technology holds great promise, but it also requires robust cyber-security measures to protect against threats and vulnerabilities. As such, NIMC must put in place significant investments in cybersecurity infrastructure and awareness training to mitigate risks and ensure the integrity of its systems.

Additionally, efforts must be intensified by the leadership of the commission to promote digital literacy, and inclusion is crucial to ensuring that all segments of society can fully participate in the self-service revolution. No one must be left behind.

But, truth must be told, the future of Nigeria appears increasingly digital and decentralized. The Director General of the commission, Engineer Abisoye Coker-Odusote, and the entire leadership of the commission should be commended for a job well done. With NIMC leading the charge, the adoption of self-service solutions is poised to accelerate, empower citizens, enhance service delivery, and drive economic growth. However, success will ultimately hinge on the ability to balance innovation with security, privacy, and inclusivity.