Senate Passes National Identity Management Commission Repeal, Re-enactment Bill

By Haruna Salami

The Senate st plenary on Wednesday passed a bill seeking to repeal and re-enact the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act.

The red chamber’s action followed the adoption of the report by its Committee on National Identity Card and Population.

Chairman of the committee, Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central) while presenting the report, explained that the bill aims to establish a national identity database and strengthen the NIMC’s mandate.

According to him, the agency will be responsible for maintaining the national identity database, registering individuals, and issuing identity credentials.

He noted that the bill would facilitate the creation of a national identity database, enhance biometric data collection, and empower the NIMC to issue regulations and guidelines for implementing the Act and other related matters.

Senator Umeh emphasized that the bill seeks to strengthen the legal framework for national and digital identity, thereby creating an inclusive, universally accessible foundational identification system.

He further stated that the Act would establish a streamlined identity system governed by less restrictive, non-discriminatory, and cost-effective data protection measures that comply with global standards.

According to him, once enacted, the bill is expected to address the challenges and limitations of the National Identity Management Commission Act of 2007. It will also bridge gaps in the incomplete and inaccurate national identity database, ensuring efficient governance and service delivery.

He added that the bill received overwhelming support from stakeholders during the public hearing due to the urgent need for a comprehensive national identity system.

Meanwhile, the Senate also passed Orthopedic Hospital Amendments Bill 2025, during plenary.

The passage followed the consideration of the report by the Committee on Health, presented by Senator Osita Ngwu (Enugu West) on behalf of the committee’s chairman, Senator Ipalibo Banigo (Rivers West).