FG integrates NIN into INEC voter registration for identity verification

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the integration of the National Identification Number (NIN) into the ongoing continuous voter registration (CVR) process to strengthen digital identity. The move is an attempt by the government to utilise the NIN database for enhanced verification. 

In a state house statement on Wednesday, the government explained that the initiative is a bold step under President Bola Tinubu’s goal to promote fairness and democracy. The development, which aims to safeguard Nigeria’s digital system, saw a strategic collaboration between the National Identification Management Commission (NIMC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“Beyond integrity, the collaboration is designed to promote efficiency and inclusivity. This will broaden democratic participation and guarantee that every eligible voice is heard in shaping Nigeria’s future,” part of the statement reads.

With the CVR ongoing nationwide, there have been records of significant turnout. The online pre-registration has so far seen 3.5 million applicants within 3 weeks, while 288,000 Nigerians have been registered in the physical registration. The FG noted that the partnership between the two  commissions further places digital identity at the core of electoral reforms.

In promoting transparency during the process, INEC will use the NIMC’s NIN database to verify applicants’ eligibility and look to erase all forms of manipulation. The initiative will seek to eliminate underage voting, double registration, and other forms of electoral malpractices.

The move also marks one of the few occasions where the NIN has been deployed in major identity occasions. Over time, Nigerians and concerned individuals have questioned the sideline and underuse of national identities such as NIN, driver’s licence, Voter Identification Number (VIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN) at the national stage.

With this latest move, the government is assuring a secure digital system that simplifies voter registration, makes the process seamless and alleviates other administrative issues. Aside from identity verification, the initiative will look to bring inclusion of marginalised groups, including remote areas and persons with disability.

“Every eligible Nigerian will be uniquely identified through their NIN, ensuring a verifiable and tamper-proof voter record,” the statement added. 

Also Read: How to register, check details, get your PVC on the INEC portal.

NIN at a strategic point of national development 

The NIMC DG/CEO, Engr Coker-Odusote, said that the collaboration between both commissions is a strategic alliance for national progress. She explained that the NIN database integration process for CVR exercises will ensure that all qualified voters are verifiably identified.

She explained that NIMC is committed to providing INEC with secure, up-to-date, verifiable identity data for voter verification. In addition, it will instil data privacy and protection policies to prevent any form of data breach. 

“The Commission pledged to provide INEC with secure, verifiable identity data in strict compliance with national laws and international standards. This commitment reflects the administration’s broader vision of deploying technology and innovation to build stronger institutions and safeguard the nation’s democracy,” the statement reads.

As of June 30, 2025, over 121 million Nigerians have registered for the NIN, with Lagos State having the highest cumulative enrollment figure at over 12.9 million. Beyond this, the NIMC is still making strategic steps to ramp up the number and meet its 180 million (roughly 78% of Nigerians) by December 2025.

As part of the process, the commission has deployed various tactical steps such as partnering with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to train Corps Members and deploy them in penetrating rural areas. The commission, earlier this year, commenced the registration of inmates and has registered close to 60,000 inmates as of June 2025.

While the collaboration with INEC looks to strengthen digital identity, it provides an opportunity for the government to utilise the database for good governance and fair representation.