President Bola Tinubu has signed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026 into law, replacing the 2007 Act with a new legal framework aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s digital identity system, enhancing cybersecurity and supporting the growth of the digital economy.
In a statement on Friday, NIMC described the legislation as a major milestone in Nigeria’s digital transformation. The new law designates the Commission as the Root Certification Authority for the country’s National Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), making it the trusted authority for secure digital identity, authentication and electronic trust services across both public and private sectors.
The Act also empowers NIMC to facilitate secure and seamless data exchange between government agencies and private organisations, providing the legal foundation for a trusted digital economy.
According to the Commission, the law supports the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda by promoting digital transformation, improving national security, expanding financial and social inclusion, enhancing public service delivery, and advancing Nigeria’s goal of building a $1 trillion economy. NIMC added that the reforms were necessary to address evolving digital challenges, including stronger data protection, cybersecurity and trusted digital services.