The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has granted FIC Professionals Network Plc (FIC) authorization to participate in the World Bank-supported Identity for Development Ecosystem Enrolment Service (ID4D) in Nigeria. This landmark development positions FIC to play a pivotal role in the ambitious national project aimed at providing every Nigerian with a verifiable digital identity, thereby transforming service delivery, bolstering governance, and fostering growth within the digital economy. FIC’s involvement promises to accelerate the realization of this transformative vision, leveraging its expertise and established network within the financial inclusion ecosystem.
FIC’s selection underscores its recognized standing as a stakeholder-owned organization dedicated to advancing financial inclusion in Nigeria. Its recent partnership with the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) to launch the Agency Banking Certification program further solidifies its commitment to developing skilled professionals for the evolving financial landscape. This collaboration aimed at equipping individuals with the necessary expertise to operate effectively within the agency banking model. This aligns seamlessly with the broader goals of the ID4D project, as a robust digital identity infrastructure is crucial for expanding access to financial services and promoting financial inclusion across the country.
NIMC’s approval of FIC’s participation followed a rigorous evaluation process, ensuring that the organization met the stringent requirements set forth for involvement in the ID4D project. This thorough assessment process, coupled with FIC’s demonstrated commitment to financial inclusion, reinforces the significance of its contribution to the project. The official letter of approval, dated January 23, 2025, and signed by the Director General/CEO of NIMC, Engr. (Mrs.) Abisoye Coker-Odusote, formalized FIC’s inclusion in this transformative national initiative.
The ID4D project represents a crucial step towards modernizing Nigeria’s identity management system, paving the way for a more inclusive and efficient digital economy. By providing a secure and verifiable digital identity to every Nigerian, the project aims to address existing challenges related to identity verification, enabling seamless access to essential services and facilitating greater participation in the digital realm. This initiative has the potential to significantly improve government service delivery, streamline administrative processes, and foster greater transparency and accountability in public administration.
The project benefits from substantial financial backing from international development partners, including a $45.5 million contribution from the World Bank in June 2024. This funding, disbursed in several tranches between December 2021 and April 2024, with ongoing disbursements, demonstrates the international community’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation efforts. The collaborative funding model, which includes support from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), the French Agency for Development (AFD), and the European Investment Bank (EIB), highlights the global recognition of the importance of robust digital identification systems for sustainable development.
In conclusion, FIC’s participation in the ID4D project marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards a fully digitized identity ecosystem. The project’s overarching goal of providing every Nigerian with a secure and verifiable digital identity holds immense potential for transforming various aspects of life, from accessing essential services to participating in the digital economy. With the support of international partners and the active involvement of key stakeholders like FIC, the ID4D project is poised to drive significant progress towards a more inclusive and prosperous future for Nigeria. This initiative stands to revolutionize how individuals interact with government services, financial institutions, and other essential sectors, ultimately fostering greater efficiency, transparency, and economic empowerment for all Nigerians.
