Tinubu Signs New NIMC Act to Expand Nigeria’s Digital ID

NIMC Act 2026 introduces 5-year jail terms, makes NIN mandatory, and names NIMC Nigeria's digital identity authority.

President Bola Tinubu signs NIMC Act 2026 with five-year jail term for identity fraud

President Bola Tinubu has signed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026 into law. He signed it on June 26, 2025, in Abuja.

The Federal Government says the law will strengthen Nigeria’s identity system, boost national security, improve public service delivery, and speed up digital transformation.

This new Act replaces the old NIMC Act of 2007. It is not just an amendment, it is a full repeal and re-enactment to meet today's digital realities.

1. NIMC now Nigeria's digital ID authority

The law officially names NIMC as the country's Root Certification Authority for PKI and DPI. In simple terms, NIMC will now control secure digital identity, authentication, and electronic trust services for the whole nation.

2. NIN becomes compulsory for critical services

The Act mandates the use of the National Identification Number for accessing key government and private services. It also enforces stricter penalties for identity theft and fraud.

3. Stronger data protection

The new law introduces stronger safeguards for personal data. It aligns Nigeria's identity system with the Nigeria Data Protection Act and international privacy standards.

4. One database, many agencies

NIMC is now empowered to share data securely and seamlessly among MDAs, banks, telcos, and other authorised institutions. The aim is to stop duplication and close loopholes used by criminals.

5. Jail terms for abuse

Here is where the five-year term comes in. Under Nigeria's identity laws, accessing information in the National Database without authorisation attracts up to 10 years imprisonment without an option of fine under Section 28(3) of the NIMC Act. Related offences, such as unauthorised access for fraudulent purposes, carry a minimum of five years imprisonment or a N5 million fine under the Cybercrime Act, which the NIMC framework references.

The government has also repeatedly warned that extorting NIN applicants or registering fake identities can attract up to seven years in jail. The message is clear: play with people's identity data, and you risk prison.

6. General Multipurpose Card and border control

The Act introduces a General Multipurpose Card, enhances anti-fraud measures, and modernises identity management. It also connects passport data with immigration databases and automates border control operations.

7. Why it matters to you

For ordinary Nigerians, this means faster access to passports, SIM registration, bank BVN linkage, driver's licence, and social interventions — all tied to one secure NIN. For government, it means better planning and the ability to track terror suspects using an integrated database, as the Minister of Interior noted.

The NIMC Act 2026 is the legal backbone of Tinubu's Renewed Hope digital economy agenda. It gives NIMC teeth, protects your data, and puts real prison time on the table for anyone who abuses the system.