By By Elizabeth Ugbo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s digital identity reforms received strong backing on Friday, July 17, 2026, as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, praised the administration’s efforts during a meeting with National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Director-General Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote in Abuja. Akume said the reforms, strengthened by the newly signed NIMC Act 2026, will accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation, protect data sovereignty and drive economic growth through a modern digital identity system.
SGF Applauds Tinubu’s Digital Transformation Agenda
Akume said President Tinubu has repositioned NIMC as a strategic institution that supports Nigeria’s digital economy.
According to him, the President recognized from the beginning of his administration that science, technology and innovation are essential for sustainable economic growth.
He said the government no longer treats governance as “business as usual” because digital innovation now drives national development.
Akume noted that the revitalization of NIMC has placed the commission at the center of Nigeria’s digital identity ecosystem.
NIMC Act 2026 Strengthens Legal Framework
The SGF described President Tinubu’s swift assent to the NIMC Act 2026 as a major milestone.
He explained that the new law provides stronger legal support for ongoing reforms and expands NIMC’s authority to manage Nigeria’s digital identity infrastructure.
According to him, the legislation reinforces the government’s commitment to building a secure and inclusive digital economy.
Government Prioritises Data Sovereignty
Akume stressed that the new law focuses on protecting Nigeria’s data sovereignty.
He said Nigeria possesses the expertise and capacity to develop, manage and secure its own digital identity systems.
He added that the country no longer needs to depend on foreign-based digital infrastructure for identity management.
The SGF expressed confidence that NIMC’s recent achievements prove Nigeria can compete among the world’s leading digital economies.
Paperless Public Service Gains Momentum
Akume also highlighted the Federal Government’s transition to a paperless public service.
He said digital processes improve efficiency, accountability and productivity while delivering faster services to citizens.
According to him, NIMC remains a key institution supporting the government’s digital governance reforms.
SGF Commends NIMC DG’s Leadership
The SGF praised NIMC Director-General Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote for her leadership and commitment.
He described her as deeply passionate about digital transformation and credited her for driving reforms within the commission.
Akume said her leadership reflects accountability, transparency and innovation, which align with the objectives of the new law.
He also assured the commission of the Federal Government’s full support in implementing the Act.
NIMC Says New Law Transforms Commission
Earlier, Coker-Odusote thanked President Tinubu for signing the NIMC Act 2026.
She described the legislation as a landmark reform that transforms NIMC from a database management agency into Nigeria’s foundational digital authority.
According to her, the law establishes NIMC as the home of Nigeria’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).
She also commended Senator Akume for leading the Presidential Committee on Digital Public Infrastructure, saying his support has advanced the country’s digital identity agenda.
New Digital Trust Framework Introduced
The NIMC Director-General said the Act empowers the commission to function as Nigeria’s National Digital Trust Anchor.
She explained that NIMC will establish and manage the National Root Certification Authority, issue digital certificates and support secure digital signatures.
The commission will also authenticate digital identities and develop standards for trusted digital identity services nationwide.
Coker-Odusote noted that the law formally recognizes Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), providing legal backing for secure electronic transactions across government and the private sector.
She said PKI will strengthen identity authentication, protect sensitive information and reduce cyber fraud and identity theft.
NIMC Presents Highlights of New Act
The visit concluded with a presentation on the major provisions of the NIMC Act 2026 by the commission’s Director of Strategic Programme Office, Dr. Alvan Ikoku.
