Dr Isa PantamiThe Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami has reminded members of the Diplomatic Corps and other lawful foreign residents in Nigeria that it is mandatory for them to own National Identity Number (NIN).
He said that to this end, a National Identity Number enrolment centre will be opened at the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs from tomorrow, January 19, so that members of the Diplomatic Corps can acquire theirs just like every Nigerian is expected to do.
A statement by Dr. Femi Adeluyi, Technical Assistant on Information Technology to Pantami, quoted the minister as saying that he and his foreign affairs counterpart, Geoffrey Onyeama have concluded to simplify the process of acquiring NIN for diplomats and foreigners.
“The National Identity Number is mandatory for diplomats who will reside in Nigeria for a continuous period of two years or more.
“It is also mandatory for all other lawful residents in the country as stated in Section 16 of the National Identity Management Commission Act 2007.
“The desk will be set up by Tuesday, 19th of January, 2021.”
The statement said that the NIN registration is crucial for the creation of a good working condition for relevant stakeholders.
“This enrolment centre will provide support for members of the Diplomatic Corps and will be managed by the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, through the National Identity Management Commission.
“The Law has made it mandatory for Nigerians and legal residents to obtain a NIN since 2007. However, compliance has been low, until recently.
“The Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy remains committed to creating an enabling environment for all Nigerians and legal residents to obtain their Digital Identity Number.”
