Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Emphasizes Federal Government’s Commitment to Streamlining Data with National Identity Management Commission
In a recent statement, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, reiterated the Federal Government’s dedication to invest in the harmonization of the nation’s data, facilitated through the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). The minister emphasized that the days of multiple identity registrations would soon come to an end in Nigeria.
Tunji-Ojo made these remarks while receiving a delegation from MTN, headed by Chief Executive Officer Karl Toriola, during a meeting held in Abuja. During the discussion, the minister underscored the importance of establishing a technology-driven data hub under the purview of the Ministry of Interior.
He articulated the vision for this interior hub as a colossal data center where all identity-related information would be meticulously documented. According to the minister, data harmonization is pivotal to achieving this goal.
Tunji-Ojo highlighted the need to restore the integrity of travel documents, emphasizing that harmonizing data is essential to achieving this objective. He further elaborated that this harmonization process would eliminate the need for individuals to undergo repetitive data capture procedures during passport enrolment, provided they possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN).
The minister explained the broader implications of data harmonization, emphasizing that it would facilitate seamless data exchange among various government agencies. This means that citizens, with their NINs, would no longer need to repeatedly provide their information for different purposes such as passport applications or Bank Verification Numbers (BVNs). Instead, their data could be effortlessly retrieved from the central database.
In summary, Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to revolutionizing the management of identity data in Nigeria. The plan involves the creation of a state-of-the-art data hub under the Ministry of Interior, leading to a more streamlined, efficient, and convenient approach to data management for both government agencies and the country’s citizens.