Tinubu Signs NIMC Act 2026 Into Law To Strengthen Digital Identity, Data Protection
President Bola Tinubu has signed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026 into law, introducing a new legal framework aimed at modernising Nigeria's digital identity system, strengthening data protection and expanding access to critical public and private services.
Announcing the development on Friday via his social media handle, Tinubu described the legislation as a landmark reform that would reposition Nigeria's identity management system for a digital economy and support the country's ambition of becoming a one-trillion-dollar economy.
According to the president, the previous legal framework governing Nigeria's identity system had been in place for nearly two decades and was no longer suited to the country's evolving technological and economic realities.
“I have signed the NIMC Act 2026 into law. For nearly twenty years, Nigeria's identity system operated under a law written for a different era. That era is over," Tinubu said.
The president explained that the new law establishes a "modern, secure, inclusive and digital identity framework" and places the National Identity Management Commission at the centre of Nigeria's Digital Public Infrastructure and National Public Key Infrastructure.
He noted that the Act would provide the trust foundation needed for verified identities, secure transactions, digital signatures and the broader digital economy.
Tinubu further stated that the legislation significantly strengthens the protection of citizens' personal data by imposing stricter rules on access and usage.
"Personal information cannot be accessed carelessly, used outside its original purpose, or treated without regard for consent and due legal process. The privacy of Nigerians must be protected, and this law makes that clear," he said.
Under the new law, the National Identification Number (NIN) will become a more critical requirement for accessing numerous services, including passport applications, voter registration, bank accounts, land transactions, telecommunications services, pensions, insurance, tax payments, consumer credit facilities and various government services.
"One person. One identity. One number," the president declared.
Tinubu also emphasised that the legislation was designed to ensure inclusiveness, particularly for vulnerable populations, underserved communities and Nigerians living abroad.
"I gave specific instructions that this law must also protect the vulnerable, the underserved, and Nigerians in the Diaspora. No Nigerian should be locked out of opportunity because they lack a trusted identity," he stated.
The president added that the Act introduces stronger governance mechanisms for the commission, expands representation on the NIMC board, improves accountability and prescribes stiffer penalties for identity-related offences.
According to him, individuals involved in identity theft, multiple registrations, unauthorised access to identity data and other abuses of the system would face tougher sanctions.
"We will not tolerate those who forge identities, steal the identities of others, or exploit the system," Tinubu warned.
The president commended the National Assembly, the Federal Ministry of Interior, the National Identity Management Commission and development partners for their contributions to the passage of the legislation.
He described the new law as a major step toward building a more secure, inclusive and prosperous Nigeria, saying it reflects his administration's commitment to implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda and accelerating the country's digital transformation.