The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has successfully enrolled 59,786 inmates in Nigeria’s correctional facilities, covering 74% of the inmate population. This initiative, carried out in partnership with the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), aims to promote inclusivity and aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

NIMC also announced plans to launch ward-level enrollment nationwide, targeting all Nigerians and legal residents. According to NIMC's DG/CEO, Engr. (Dr.) Abisoye Coker-Odusote, the goal is to ensure no one is left out of the national identity system.

This dual initiative—inmate enrollment and grassroots registration —is a major step toward universal identity coverage, bolstering the National Identity System and facilitating better access to government services.

Implications:

 Improved Data Inclusion: Enrolling inmates ensures that even marginalized populations are captured in national databases.

Security and Governance: Enhanced identity coverage can aid in tracking, service delivery, and planning.

• Broader Access to Services: With NIN being a requirement for services like banking, health, and voting, ward-level enrollment will reduce barriers in underserved areas.