In a move aimed at streamlining identity management and enhancing convenience for citizens, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has unveiled plans for a revolutionary new National Identity card.
The card, dubbed the General Multipurpose Card (GMPC), promises to consolidate various functions into a single, versatile solution, eliminating the need for multiple cards.
Announcing the initiative, the Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC, Kayode Adegoke, highlighted the GMPC’s diverse range of applications.
These include facilitating payments and financial transactions, accessing government intervention and services, and serving as a travel document.
The introduction of the GMPC follows the Nigerian government’s recent announcement regarding the issuance of new National Identification Numbers (NINs), further bolstering the country’s identity infrastructure.
Crucially, the GMPC will be powered by the AFRIGO card scheme, an indigenous initiative supported by the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigerian Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS).
This collaboration ensures seamless integration into existing financial systems, enhancing accessibility and usability for all Nigerians.
Applicants will have multiple channels to request the GMPC, including self-service online portals, NIMC offices, or their respective banks.
The issuance process will adhere to established protocols for Debit/Credit card issuance, with cards available for pickup at designated centers or delivery to requested locations, albeit at an additional cost borne by applicants.
“The card will be powered by the AFRIGO card scheme, an indigenous scheme powered by NIBSS.Â
“Applicants for the card will have to request with their NIN through the self-service online portal, NIMC offices, or their respective banks
“The card will be issued through the applicants’ respective banks in line with existing protocols with the issuance of the Debit/Credit cards.
“The card can be picked up by holders at the designated centre or delivered to the applicants at the requested location at an extra cost to be borne by the applicants,” the statement said.
