Engineer Abisoye Coker-Odusote, director general/chief executive officer (DG/CEO) of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), has identified proper national identity system the key to opening doors, breaking barriers, and creating pathways to future growth and development.
This was contained in the DG’s goodwill message at the Lagos Future Conference held in Lagos on Saturday, June 14 2025 by DigiVation Network.
Coker-Odusote who was represented by Prince Ajibade Ayeni Omobalufon, State Coordinator for NIMC, said that the Lagos Future Conference 2025 embodies the spirit of transformation, empowering and breaking systemic barriers to nation-building, technological advancement and prioritising growth and development through youth empowerment.
As a Nigerian advocating for Digital accelerated growth and development, inclusion, and opportunity, the DG said that the theme; “Future-Forward: Harnessing the Power of Youth, Innovation, and Technology for National Economic Growth,” resonates deeply with NIMC’s mission.
“Identity is the key to opening doors, breaking barriers, and creating pathways to future growth and development, particularly in a cosmopolitan state like Lagos State. At the core of this mission is the National Identification Number (NIN)—a tool that transforms the way Nigerians, especially the youths in Lagos State, access opportunities and resources for both personal and collective growth.
“As you may be aware, Digital identity plays a crucial role in harnessing the power of youth and innovation, and technology for national economic growth and development. The NIMC has contributed significantly towards empowering our teeming youth to unlock the potential of creating an economically prosperous future. Lagos State is blessed with the resources required to bring about future growth and the NIMC is strategically positioned to foster innovations and create a new system of digital transformation.
“The National Identification Number (NIN) has provided access to services for teeming youths. The NIN, a digital identity token, has provided young people with secure access to essential services, such as education, healthcare, and financial services, enabling them to reach their full potential. The National Identity Management Commission’s partnership with the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has created a pathway for many students to access education loans to support their drive in building a veritable future.
“NIMC Entrepreneurship System through the Front End Partnership enrolment has created opportunities for young entrepreneurs to enrol Nigerians and be paid for every successful NIN generated. This system has promoted job creation.
“NIMC has created the enabling digital Skills through its training program for its Front End Partners. The digital identity training organised by NIMC has helped many young people develop digital skills, enabling them to contribute significantly to the economy”.
She added that digital identity has facilitated collaboration between innovators, researchers, and industry experts, driving innovation and knowledge sharing.
“The Commission has engaged the services of some organisations managed by young innovators to develop a series of innovative products and services to drive digital inclusion.
“Through a collaboration with the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC), digital identity has helped protect intellectual property rights, encouraging innovation and creativity.
“Digital identity can streamline government services, reducing bureaucracy and increasing efficiency, which can lead to economic growth.
“The NIMC improved General Multi-Purpose Card with its Financial Inclusion capability can enable more people to access financial services and participate in the economy.
“As we move forward, let us remain steadfast in our mission to empower Nigerian youth, particularly in Lagos with digital identity.
“The work we do here at NIMC is not just about numbers; it is about transforming lives and building a nation where no one is left behind. I believe with the right frame of mind and sheer determination, our youth can build a future filled with economic growth and prosperity.
“Together, we are not just enabling identities; we are unlocking opportunities. Let’s forge ahead with renewed determination!”, the DG said.
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