The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has announced that Nigerians will be required to pay for the new multipurpose national identity card, citing limited government revenue as the main reason for this decision.

During a two-day roundtable for journalists in Lagos, Dr. Peter Iwegbu, Head of Card Management Services at NIMC, explained that the payment is necessary to ensure that the card is produced only for those who need it. He noted that the previous initiative to issue free National ID cards resulted in over two million cards being produced, many of which remain uncollected.

“The government’s limited revenue is also a significant factor in the decision to charge for the new ID card,” Dr. Iwegbu stated.

Mr. Lanre Yusuf, Director of Information Technology at NIMC, added that the previous free national ID card program did not achieve its intended results. He described the new ID card as a “post-paid” identity card, emphasizing that individuals must have a genuine need for it before requesting it.

“To obtain the new national ID card, Nigerians will need to make a payment, choose a pickup location, and then collect their card from there,” Yusuf explained.

He also highlighted programs designed to ensure accessibility for less privileged Nigerians who may not be able to afford the card but require it to access government services. “This initiative shows the government’s commitment to inclusivity and equality,” he said.

Yusuf further revealed that the multipurpose ID cards will be launched soon, with sample test cards already received. NIMC is collaborating with banks across the country, allowing Nigerians to request the card at any nearby bank.

The new national ID card is a multipurpose card that will serve as an identity verification tool, facilitate payments, and provide access to government services. Developed in partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigeria Interbank Settlement System, the card is designed to support various government programs and services across ministries, departments, and agencies.