The new national identity card (ID card) will perform two functions; as a national means of identification and as an ATM card which can be used to carryout financial services such as cash withdrawal at any ATMs or POS agents.
In other words, the newly introduced ID card is an innovative identity solutions with payment functionality for all types of social and financial services.
The ID card is powdered by AfriGO, a National domestic card scheme, in collaboration with National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Inter-bank Settlement System (NIBSS) - agency that manages the outward & inward flow of money in Nigeria banks.
This ID card is also known as GMPC - a General Multipurpose Card.
Features of the National ID Card
Here are the functionalities and what's comprises on the new National ID Card:
- Machine Readable Zone (MRZ): A machine-readable zone (MRZ) is a code added to the personal data page of an identity document. It usually consists of 1-3 lines of letters and digits, which contain the personal information of the document holder. This feature is used for confirmation with ICAO for e-passport information. Notably, this code is also present on our ATM cards.
- Card Issue Data and Doc Number: The National ID Card issuance date and document numbers are also present on the card. These information are inline with ICAO standard.
- Social and Financial Services: The New National ID Card can be used to carryout additional social and financial features including travel, health insurance information, microloans, agriculture, food stamps, transport, and energy subsidies, e.t.c.
- Debit and Prepaid Card Functionality: The core functionalities or should I say the added value services of the National ID Card is the ability to be used to perform debit card and prepaid card functions alongside verifying your identity. I will talk more about that, continue reading.
- Biometric and Nigeria's Quick Response (NQR) Code Authentication: The new National ID Card features fingerprint and capturing, as the primary means for identity verification through the data on the card chip and also possesses a QR code containing your national identification number.
National ID Card as Debit Card
Alongside using the National ID Card to verify your identity Nationwide, it can also be used to carryout debit card and prepaid card services such as cash withdrawal at any ATMs or POS agents. The National ID card can also be used to make payment online where naira is accepted.
Generally, the National ID Card can be used to verify identity nationwide, gain access to both government and private social services, promote financial inclusion for marginalized Nigerians, empower citizens, and foster greater engagement in nation-building efforts.
The most interesting part of this ID card is that you can link it to any bank account of your choice. That is, you can link the National ID Card with your bank and seamlessly carry-out financial transactions from your account using the ID card.
How to Get the National ID Card
The New National Identity Card is supported by the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, which requires the NIMC to register and provide a General Multipurpose card (GMPC) to both Nigerians and legal residents.
However, only individuals who are registered citizens or legal residents having the National Identification Number (NIN) will qualify to request and apply for the new national ID card. The card will be produced in accordance with ICAO standards, and designated as the primary and default national identity card for Nigerians.
The ID card can be request online at any commercial banks of your choice, NIMC offices and through accredited agencies or agents participating in multiple government programmes.
Final thoughts
The introduction of the new Nigerian ID card that functions as a debit card marks a significant step towards a more streamlined and convenient system for citizens. This multipurpose card eliminates the need to carry separate cards for identification and financial transactions.
By combining these functionalities, the Nigerian government aims to improve financial inclusion, reduce the burden of carrying multiple cards, and enhance security measures. With this innovative approach, Nigeria is positioned to become a leader in digital identity and financial services.
Adhering to data protection regulations and public interest, NIMC is dedicated to safeguarding cardholders' personal information and will uphold compliance with international data security standards. Robust security features are implemented to ensure the confidentiality and safety of users' data.
In conclusion, this innovative approach is positioning Nigeria to becoming a leader in digital identity and financial services in Africa.
