The World Bank has released $45.5 million to aid Nigeria’s Identification for Development (ID4D) project, a bold initiative to assign distinct identification numbers to millions of Nigerians. This financial support is a component of a larger endeavour to improve the nation’s digital infrastructure and foster inclusive economic growth.
The ID4D project aims to tackle the issues caused by the absence of a complete identification system in Nigeria, where millions of individuals do not have official identification. This has impeded their ability to access vital services like banking, healthcare, and social protection programs. Through setting up a strong identification system, the project strives to enhance service provision, boost security, and promote economic growth.
In a statement, the World Bank emphasized the importance of the ID4D project in achieving Nigeria’s developmental goals. “The disbursement of $45.5 million underscores our commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to build a reliable and inclusive identification system,” the statement read. “This initiative will significantly contribute to poverty reduction and the empowerment of vulnerable populations.”
The funding will be used to support various components of the ID4D project, including the registration of citizens and the issuance of unique identification numbers. The project will also enhance the capacity of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and integrate existing identification databases to ensure a unified and efficient system.
Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Pantami, welcomed the World Bank’s support, highlighting the transformative potential of the ID4D project. “This funding will accelerate our efforts to provide every Nigerian with a unique identification number, which is crucial for accessing government services and participating in the digital economy,” Pantami stated. “The ID4D project is a cornerstone of our digital transformation strategy and will drive socio-economic development.”
The ID4D project aligns with Nigeria’s broader digital economy policy, which aims to leverage technology to boost economic growth and improve public service delivery. The government has set an ambitious target of enrolling over 100 million Nigerians in the national identification system by 2025.
Experts believe that the successful implementation of the ID4D project will have far-reaching benefits for Nigeria. “A comprehensive identification system is essential for promoting financial inclusion, reducing fraud, and enhancing governance,” said Dr. Yemi Kale, a prominent economist. “By ensuring that every citizen is recognized and accounted for, the ID4D project will lay the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.”
The World Bank’s disbursement comes at a critical time as Nigeria grapples with various socio-economic challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the need for a robust identification system to facilitate the distribution of relief measures and support recovery efforts.
As Nigeria embarks on this transformative journey, the government remains committed to ensuring the success of the ID4D project. “We are determined to create a digital identity ecosystem that leaves no one behind,” said Aliyu Aziz, Director-General of the NIMC. “With the support of the World Bank and other partners, we are confident that we can achieve our goals and make a positive impact on the lives of millions of Nigerians.”
The ID4D project is poised to be a game-changer for Nigeria, paving the way for a more inclusive and digitally empowered society. The World Bank’s investment is a testament to the project’s potential to drive sustainable development and improve the lives of Nigerians across the country.
