President Bola Tinubu has described the robustness of Nigeria’s digital public infrastructure as key to current initiatives to strongly position the country for sustainable growth path and its competitiveness in the rapidly evolving global digital economic space.
The President made this remark in his speech today as the global community marks the 2024 National Identity Day
He explained that coming together of Nigerians to mark the day also entails the collective efforts to recognize the fundamental right of every citizen in Nigeria and across the globe to having a unique verifiable proof of identity as this emphasizes each citizen’s basic human right to protection, sustenance and support as a recognized member of society wherever you are.
According to him, this year’s National Identity Day with the theme ‘Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) – Enabling Access to Services’ underscores the critical role that digital identity plays in Nigeria’s development.
Tinubu further stressed: “In today’s digital age, the ability to prove one’s identity is not just a matter of convenience; it is a cornerstone of our socioeconomic progress. Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) is the backbone that enables access to essential services, from healthcare and education to financial inclusion and social welfare. It is through robust DPI that we can ensure every Nigerian, regardless of their background or location, has the opportunity to participate fully in our nation’s growth.
“Our administration’s 8-point agenda, which includes food security, ending poverty, economic growth and job creation, access to capital, improving security, enhancing the business environment, upholding the rule of law, and fighting corruption, is intrinsically linked to the success of our digital identity initiatives. By leveraging DPI, we can streamline service delivery, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, and ensure that government programs reach those who need them most.
“It goes without saying that a robust, efficient digital identity system has proven vital for the success of Government programmes like providing incentives for farmers, the student loan scheme, the National Youth Talent Export Programme, Renewed Hope City and Estate Housing initiative, the Skill-Up Artisans Programme and others. Verifiable identity is crucial in ensuring the right services and assistance goes to the right people in need of them”, the President added.
He maintained that the “Renewed Hope” initiative is his administration’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and improving the living standards of all Nigerians since digital identity is a key enabler of this vision, and empowers individuals, facilitates economic transactions, and enhances transparency and accountability in governance.
Tinubu noted that with a reliable digital identity system, Nigerians can build a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.
The President commended the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) under the leadership of DG/CEO Engr Abisoye Coker Odusote for its tireless efforts in collaborating with various agencies and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to advance the administration’s digital identity agenda, and ensuring the success of government initiatives through the use of digital identity.
He said that as Nigerians celebrate the National Identity Day, there should be a collective reaffirmation of all the MDAs’ commitment to building a robust digital public infrastructure that enables access to services for all Nigerians.
Tinubu assured: “Together, we can create a future where every citizen has the means to thrive and contribute to our nation’s development.”
