Pres. Jonathan Unveils National Electronic Identity Card (E-Id Card)

On Thursday 28th August 2014, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan was present at the formal launch of the National Electronic Identity Card (e-ID scheme) at the State House, Abuja.

He received the first biometric card, which can also be used to make electronic payments. All Nigerians are expected to have the card by 2019 to be eligible to vote.10 years ago, there was an attempt to introduce the national ID cards but according to a few analysts, they blame it on corruption for its failure.

“The card is not only a means of certifying your identity, but also a personal database repository and payment card, all in your pocket.

I have taken keen interest in this project, primarily because of the pervasive impact it can have on every facet of the socio-economic fabric of our dear nation,” GEJ said at the event.

The card shows a person’s photograph, name, age and unique ID number. 1o fingerprints and an iris are scanned during enrollment to ensure there are no duplicates on the system.

The Nigerian Identity Management Commission, which is behind the new card, aims to integrate several government databases including those for driving licences, voter registration, health insurance, taxes and pensions.

You can register for the National e-ID card registration at NIMC enrollment centres in the country of pre-enrol online at NinEnrol.gov.ng.
Photo Credit: Reuben Abati