Nigerians Frustrated by Repeated Biometric Captures for Official Registrations

Nigerians are expressing frustration over the repetitive demands for biometric data captures across various platforms, including SIM registration, national ID cards, and SIM-NIN linkage, as reported by The Guardian.

The continual requirement for biometric data for multiple identification processes, starting with SIM card registration in 2011 through to the issuance of the National Identification Number (NIN), Bank Verification Number (BVN), voter’s card, and passports, has caused public discontent. This dissatisfaction is further compounded by the disjointed and siloed nature of governmental data systems.

According to The Guardian, an estimated 57 billion Naira (approximately $49 billion) has been expended over the past 13 years on biometric capture processes related to SIM card registration alone. This expenditure includes investments in infrastructure, public education and sensitization campaigns, logistics, and other operational costs. Despite these investments, the benefits and efficiencies expected from such extensive data collection efforts remain elusive.

Further findings reveal that of the 318 million SIM cards registered since 2011, around 99 million are reportedly no longer active. Telecommunications operators have incurred about 17 billion Naira (around $14 billion) in costs related to the registration of these inactive SIMs.

Stakeholders are calling on the government to establish a unified and interoperable data system to allow for seamless information sharing among agencies, which would simplify processes and enhance data management. Gbenga Adebayo, chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), emphasized the benefits of such a system for streamlining information management and boosting financial inclusion.

In related developments, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) reported that over 105 million Nigerians have been issued NINs, with a target to enroll 200 million by 2025. Efforts to achieve this goal include the introduction of a self-service app for easier NIN registration. This initiative follows a recent agreement with Idemia aimed at expanding Nigeria’s biometric ID system to support up to 250 million digital IDs, indicating significant steps toward enhancing digital identity management in the country.