Individual identity registration.
WHAT IT IS
A unique number assigned to an individual on enrolment in the national identity database.
WHO ADMINISTERS IT
The National Identity Management Commission.
WHY IT MATTERS
It is required for an increasing range of services: banking, telecommunications, passports, and various government transactions.
WHAT ENROLMENT INVOLVES
Completing a registration Attending for biometric capture Receiving a number
WHY ATTENDANCE IS REQUIRED
Fingerprints and facial capture cannot be done remotely.
WHERE ENROLMENT HAPPENS
Designated centres, including some bank branches and accredited agents.
WHAT TO BRING
Supporting documents establishing identity, as specified.
WHAT COMMONLY CAUSES PROBLEMS
Name spelling differing from other documents Date of birth differing Duplicate enrolment
WHY DUPLICATES ARE A PROBLEM
The system rejects them, and resolving takes time.
WHAT TO DO
Enrol once, and keep the details consistent with your other documents.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT ERRORS
Apply for modification through the prescribed process.
WHAT THAT TYPICALLY REQUIRES
Evidence supporting the correct details A fee, for some corrections
WHAT TO KEEP
Your number, and the enrolment slip.
WHAT TO BE CAREFUL WITH
Sharing the number carelessly.
WHY
It is increasingly used to link records.
