The Director General of the National Identity Management Commission, NIMC, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote has assured Nigerians that its national database is safe and secure, adding that there is no cause for alarm.
The DG stated this on Wednesday at a roundtable with Editors and Publishers of Online Media in Nigeria.
Speaking against the backdrop of unverifiable insinuation on social media over an alleged data breach, she said the roundtable engagement that is aimed at collaborating with online media to support the commission’s mission by publishing facts rather than misinformation.
According to Coker-Odusaote, she called on online editors and publishers to disseminate accurate information about the commission’s activities to the general public. ”NIMC would ensure no one is left behind, the commission has the largest database in Africa” she stated
She hinted that the ongoing 2-day roundtable for online media practioners with support from the Nigeria Digital Identification for Development (ID4D) project in Abuja assured that in pursuant to their commitment to transparency and accountability, they have instituted robust mechanisms for participation, grievance redress, and regular monitoring to enhance operational performance and mitigate social risks.
She explained that their grievance redress system includes a centralized grievance register, a contact centre, and multiple channels for submitting complaints.
“This system ensures that queries are addressed promptly, problems with implementation are resolved efficiently, and complaints from ecosystem partners are effectively managed.
She said the essence of the Roundtable is to build formidable bridges between the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and the influential voices of the online media landscape.
She said in the digital age, the influence of online media cannot be overstated adding that the internet has become a primary source of information for many, particularly the youth.
“Our focus today is to address the dual role of online publishers – as key partners in disseminating accurate information and as potential sources of misconceptions.
“We recognize that while you have the power to amplify our successes, there is also the potential for misunderstandings that can spread rapidly,” she said.
Also, the Coordinator, Project Implementation Unit, Nigeria Digital ID4D Project, Tito Ejenavi explained that the project is collaborative effort, jointly funded by the World Bank, the European Investment Bank, and the French Development Agency, with a singular objective: to increase the number of persons with a National Identity Number (NIN) through a robust and inclusive foundational identity system that enables access to services.
She said they are committed to reversing this trend by ensuring that our ID system is inclusive, equitable, and accessible to all Nigerians, regardless of their socio-economic status, gender, or physical abilities.
“The foundational ID system that NIMC is building is not just about numbers; it’s about people and their access to rights and services.
“By strengthening our national identity infrastructure, we aim to bolster Nigeria’s digital economy, enhance data protection, and close the inclusion gaps that hinder access to identification and related key services.
“This is particularly crucial for marginalized groups, including persons living with disabilities and the rural poor.
“By engaging with you, the publishers of online newspapers, we aim to strengthen NIMC’s relationship with the digital information gatekeepers.
“Your role is strategic and timely, and we believe this engagement will further enhance NIMC’s visibility, communicate the commission’s success stories, build valuable relationships, and counter misinformation.
“As digital publishers, you have the power to shape narratives and influence public perceptions.Your platforms reach millions of Nigerians and beyond, daily, making you indispensable partners in our mission to build a more inclusive and digitally empowered Nigeria,” she said.
Other speakers such as Kayode Adegoke, NIMC’s Corporate Communications Head, denied database breaches and rumors of websites selling of Nigerians’ NINs and BVNs for as low as N100.
“Our database is full proof and secured. I think what people don’t understand is that what NIMC is doing is digital identity management” he noted
While Dr. Alvan Ikoku, Head of Strategy and Program Office at NIMC, emphasized the importance of accuracy, factual reporting, professionalism, and ethical principles in journalism.
Dr Ikoku highlighted NIMC’s 5 point Strategy Development and Implementation, focusing on national identity, citizen management, security, inclusion of women, children, disabled, and in prisons, and digital identity.
