The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has highlighted the key details of the new General Multipurpose National Identity Card (GMPC), describing it as an innovative card designed to consolidate identification documents, improve financial accessibility, and streamline government and private sector services for Nigerian citizens.
The agency, in a statement posted on its X (formerly Twitter) account, disclosed that the GMPC would serve as a comprehensive form of identification, replacing multiple identity documents and simplifying access to services.
The X post reads: “The GMPC will serve multiple purposes, combining several existing cards into one. This new card will eliminate the need for citizens to carry multiple forms of identification, making it more convenient for everyday use.”
The NOA stated that in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), the GMPC, which will operate under the AFRIGO card scheme, would allow users to conduct financial transactions directly through the card.
In addition, it explained that the GMPC would include a Machine-Readable Zone (MRZ) conforming to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, biometric authentication, and offline capability for transactions in areas with limited network coverage.
On the eligibility criteria for obtaining the GMPC, NOA clarified that citizens and legal residents must have a National Identification Number (NIN) and file their applications online, at NIMC offices, commercial banks, or participating agencies and agents.
According to the agency, with these guidelines, the new GMPC seeks to provide citizens with a more efficient and versatile means of identification while improving access to financial and government services.
It, therefore, advised all eligible citizens and legal residents to take advantage of the opportunities of the card, which aims to enhance financial inclusion, empower citizens, and encourage participation in nation-building.
