NIMC clears payments to front-end partners, boosts identity system

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has announced the resolution of all outstanding payments owed to Front-End Partners (FEPs) for successfully enrolling individuals into the National Identity Database and generating National Identification Numbers (NINs).

The FEPs, contracted in 2021 under the former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, were engaged to scale up NIN enrollment as part of a stop-gap initiative.

While the partners were initially compensated for one year of services, subsequent payments were delayed until the intervention of NIMC’s new leadership.

Upon assuming office, the NIMC Director-General/CEO, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, prioritized resolving the backlog of payments.

The process included a rigorous revalidation exercise to ensure all FEPs adhered to internationally recognized standards, ethical compliance, and operational efficiency.

Following the revalidation, the Commission collaborated with the World Bank and the Identity for Development (ID4D) project to secure the necessary funds.

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Although the outstanding payments were not part of the World Bank-funded enrollment project, the ID4D and World Bank facilitated payment of arrears for services rendered between 2021 and 2024.

The FEP initiative had been a temporary measure to increase NIN registrations until the World Bank/ID4D project commenced. This resolution underscores NIMC’s commitment to fostering trust and collaboration with its partners.

FEP representatives have commended NIMC’s leadership for addressing their long-standing concerns.

Phillip M. Adekunle, MD/CEO of Knowledge Square Ltd, said, “We deeply appreciate NIMC’s commitment to enhancing the welfare and operational efficiency of enrollment partners. This proactive effort fosters trust and strengthens collaboration.”

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Pastor Vincent Emiowele, MD of Real Positive Friends, echoed similar sentiments, describing the payment as “timely and highly appreciated.”

The MD of Slogani, Pastor Vincent Emiowele, praised Engr. Coker-Odusote’s leadership for ensuring the prompt resolution of payments, calling it a commendable and decisive action.

Expressing gratitude to the FEPs and other stakeholders, Engr. Coker-Odusote reaffirmed NIMC’s commitment to creating a credible, reliable, and world-class National Identity Database (NIDB).

She also acknowledged the vital support provided by the World Bank and ID4D in achieving this milestone.

“This decisive action not only resolves past challenges but sets a foundation for enhanced collaboration and efficiency in Nigeria’s identity management system,” she said.

By addressing these financial backlogs, NIMC has reinforced its dedication to operational transparency and a stronger partnership with enrollment stakeholders, laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and reliable identity system in Nigeria.