The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has granted the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) a licence to register inmates in all 256 custodial centres across the country for National Identity Numbers (NIN). This development was confirmed during a meeting between NCoS Acting Controller-General, Sylvester Nwakuche, and NIMC Director-General, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, in Abuja on Tuesday.
Enhancing Inclusion and Security
Nwakuche stated that the licence would address the exclusion of inmates from Nigeria’s national development plans and enhance their safety and security. He noted that having a NIN would also facilitate the recapture of inmates in the event of jailbreaks.
“This initiative will ensure that inmates, including those pursuing academic qualifications such as university degrees, master’s, and doctorate degrees, are integrated into national development plans and society at large,†Nwakuche said.
He emphasized that the inclusion of inmates, especially those awaiting trial whose legal status is yet to be determined, is critical for national planning, census activities, and other development initiatives.
Collaboration for Effective Reforms
The NCoS leader highlighted the ongoing reforms within the correctional service system, aimed at fostering rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates into society. “Such inmates should not be excluded from contributing to their families and the nation,†he added.
Importance of NIN for National Development
NIMC Director-General, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, reaffirmed the significance of the NIN in Nigeria’s national development plans. She highlighted its integration with various national initiatives, including financial systems and government programs.
“The NIN is linked to all bank accounts and is critical to ensuring transparency in initiatives like student loans by eliminating duplicity and preventing ghost beneficiaries,†she explained.
Coker-Odusote also noted that President Bola Tinubu’s eight-point agenda hinges on Nigeria’s digital identity system, emphasizing the role of the NIN in driving socio-economic development.
Strengthened Partnerships
Coker-Odusote expressed her satisfaction with the partnership, noting that NIMC had successfully collaborated with other agencies like the Nigeria Immigration Service to streamline identity management processes. She assured NCoS of full support in implementing their mandate effectively.
“We will provide you with the licence and necessary assistance to ensure the seamless execution of this initiative,†she affirmed.
A Step Towards Inclusion
The collaboration between NIMC and NCoS represents a significant step in ensuring that all segments of the Nigerian population, including inmates, are included in national development plans. By integrating inmates into the national identity system, the government aims to foster rehabilitation, enhance security, and leverage the potential contributions of all individuals to the nation’s growth.
