FG to Extend Trusted Digital Identity to 80 Million Learners Through Education–NIMC Partnership

The Federal Government has announced plans to extend trusted digital identity coverage to nearly 80 million learners across Nigeria as part of efforts to strengthen governance, improve education planning and enhance public service delivery.

The initiative was disclosed following a meeting between the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Director-General of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Engr. Bisoye Coker-Odusote, where both parties reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration on digital identity in the education sector.

Speaking at the meeting, Dr. Alausa described the NIMC Act, 2026, as a landmark reform that would strengthen governance, improve public service delivery and build greater trust in Nigeria’s digital identity ecosystem.

The minister revealed that the Federal Ministry of Education has integrated the National Learners’ Identification Number (LIN) with the National Identification Number (NIN) through the Nigeria Education Management Information System (NEMIS). According to him, the integration will provide verified education data to support evidence-based planning, equitable allocation of resources and improved learning outcomes across the country.

He noted that Nigeria’s education sector currently caters to nearly 80 million learners at various levels, making the initiative a critical step toward creating a more efficient and data-driven education system.

Also speaking, NIMC Director-General, Engr. Bisoye Coker-Odusote, disclosed that more than 120 million Nigerians have been enrolled in the National Identity Database, adding that digital identity services are continuing to expand nationwide.

The Federal Ministry of Education reiterated its commitment to partnering with NIMC to strengthen secure digital identity systems, improve education service delivery and support national development.