The Nigerian Senate has approved a bill that will make it compulsory for all citizens to register under a new national identity system. This move is part of efforts to improve Nigeria’s identity management and create a centralized database for all residents.

The bill was passed on Wednesday, March 26, after a review by the Senate Committee on National Identity Card and Population. Senator Victor Umeh, who leads the committee, explained that the new law will help:

• Ensure accurate identity records by reducing errors and duplication.
• Improve inclusion by ensuring that all Nigerians are properly registered.
• Follow global best practices to create a reliable and cost-effective identity system.

If the bill is signed into law, it will:

• Establish a centralized database where all registered citizens’ information will be stored.
• Create a commission responsible for managing citizen registration and issuing identity cards.

Before becoming law, the bill must first be approved by the House of Representatives. After that, it will be sent to the President for final approval. If signed, the law will officially take effect, making citizen registration mandatory across Nigeria.

This step is expected to improve identity management, security, and access to government services for all Nigerians.