Senate Passes National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Bill 2025

The Nigerian Senate has passed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Repeal and Enactment Bill 2025, paving the way for comprehensive reforms in the nation’s digital identity framework.

The bill, which seeks to strengthen Nigeria’s national identity management system and enhance data protection, was passed during Wednesday’s plenary session following a motion by Senate Majority Leader, Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele (APC–Ekiti).

Bamidele explained that after its initial passage, the National Assembly identified fundamental issues requiring further legislative action. Consequently, a technical committee comprising members of the Senate, House of Representatives, and the Directorate of Legal Services reviewed and fine-tuned the bill.

Citing Orders 1(b) and 52(b) of the Senate Standing Orders, the chamber resolved to rescind its earlier decision and re-commit the bill for fresh consideration. After a detailed clause-by-clause review in the Committee of the Whole, the Senate unanimously approved the bill.

In his closing remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended lawmakers and key stakeholders for their contributions, expressing confidence that President Bola Tinubu would assent to the bill once transmitted.

The NIMC Bill 2025 is expected to provide a stronger legal framework for digital identity management, enhance citizen data security, and support Nigeria’s digital economy transformation agenda.