The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has granted FIC Professionals Network Plc the authorization to participate in the World Bank-supported Identity for Development Ecosystem Enrolment Service in Nigeria. This landmark development marks a significant stride towards achieving comprehensive digital identity coverage for all Nigerians, a goal that promises to revolutionize service delivery, enhance governance, and unlock a plethora of opportunities within the burgeoning digital economy. FIC’s inclusion in this transformative project underscores its recognized standing as a stakeholder-owned organization dedicated to advancing financial inclusion in Nigeria.
FIC Professionals Network Plc, a key player in the financial inclusion ecosystem, has recently partnered with the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) to launch the Agency Banking Certification program. This program equips aspiring professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of financial inclusion. FIC’s commitment to fostering financial inclusion aligns seamlessly with the objectives of the ID4D project, creating a synergistic relationship that promises to accelerate the realization of a digitally inclusive Nigeria. The approval from NIMC, conveyed in a letter dated January 23, 2025, and signed by the Director General/CEO, Engr. (Mrs.) Abisoye Coker-Odusote, solidifies FIC’s role in this crucial national endeavor.
The Nigeria Digital Identification for Development (ID4D) project represents a bold and ambitious undertaking to provide every Nigerian with a secure and verifiable digital identity. This foundational element is poised to transform the way services are delivered, facilitating seamless access to essential amenities and opportunities. By streamlining identification processes, the project aims to enhance transparency and accountability in governance, fostering a more efficient and effective public sector. Furthermore, the ID4D project is expected to unlock a wealth of possibilities within the digital economy, empowering Nigerians to participate fully in the digital marketplace and tap into its vast potential.
The World Bank has demonstrated its strong commitment to the ID4D project by providing substantial financial support. In June 2024, the World Bank allocated $45.5 million to NIMC specifically for this initiative. This funding, disbursed in tranches between December 2021 and April 2024, with disbursements still ongoing, highlights the global recognition of the project’s significance. The World Bank’s investment underscores the transformative potential of the ID4D project to drive positive change in Nigeria.
The ID4D project enjoys the support of a consortium of international development partners, including the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), the French Agency for Development (AFD), and the European Investment Bank (EIB). This collaborative approach reflects the shared vision of these institutions to promote inclusive development and leverage technology to improve lives. The combined expertise and resources of these partners will contribute significantly to the successful implementation and long-term sustainability of the ID4D project.
FIC’s approval to participate in the ID4D ecosystem enrolment service signifies a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards digital inclusivity. By empowering FIC to contribute its expertise in financial inclusion, the project strengthens its capacity to reach a wider audience and maximize its impact. The collaboration between NIMC, FIC, and the international development partners promises to accelerate the realization of a digitally connected Nigeria, where all citizens have access to secure digital identities, unlocking opportunities for economic growth and social progress. This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation to address critical development challenges and create a more prosperous future for all Nigerians.
