FIC Report (Benue State) – The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Benue State Office, has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding the National Identity Database and ensuring the registration of more residents across the state.
The State Coordinator of NIMC, Mr. Mantoe Sunday Shaike, stated this on Tuesday, 16th June 2026, during a meeting of the Association of Heads of Federal Establishments held at the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Office in Makurdi.
Delivering a paper presentation, Mr. Shaike explained that the core mandate of NIMC includes operating and maintaining the National Identity Database (NIDB), registering Nigerian citizens and legal residents, assigning the National Identification Number (NIN), and issuing the General Multi-Purpose Card (GMPC).
He further noted that the Commission is responsible for harmonising and integrating identity databases across government institutions, adding that over 130 million Nigerians had been enrolled in the National Identity Database as of 2026.
According to him, NIMC also provides identity authentication and verification services, safeguards data in the National Identity Database, collaborates with public and private institutions in identity management, and regulates the Nigerian identity sector.
Mr. Shaike emphasised that a robust digital identity system serves as the backbone for government services, including social welfare programmes, pension administration, healthcare delivery, education, and electoral processes, ensuring that benefits reach the intended beneficiaries.
He added that the identity system also enhances national security by assisting law enforcement and immigration agencies in tracking identities and curbing fraud.
The NIMC Coordinator further explained that the NIN has become critical for economic growth and financial inclusion, as banks, telecommunications companies and Fitch firms rely on it for Know Your Customer (KYC) processes, making it easier for citizens to open bank accounts, register SIM cards and access credit facilities.
He said the system reduces barriers for people in rural communities to participate in the formal economy while supporting digital payments and e-government services.
Mr. Shaike thanked members of the association for their support and urged them to continue advocating for the ongoing ward-level enrolment initiative nationwide and sensitising residents on the importance of digital identity registration.
In a separate presentation, the State Coordinator of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Benue State Field Office, Mr. Adanu Majesty, highlighted the agency’s mandate in enforcing environmental laws and regulations across Nigeria.
Mr. Adanu explained that NESREA monitors and controls air, water, land and noise pollution arising from industrial and other human activities.
He stated that the agency conducts environmental compliance monitoring by inspecting facilities and projects to ensure adherence to established environmental standards.
According to him, NESREA also promotes environmental awareness and education aimed at encouraging environmental responsibility among citizens and organisations.
The State Coordinator added that the agency supports the sustainable use of natural resources and biodiversity conservation while ensuring Nigeria complies with international environmental treaties, including the Basel Convention, which prohibits the transboundary movement of hazardous waste.
He further disclosed that NESREA administers environmental compliance certificates, emission permits and waste disposal licences for commercial sectors across the country.
Mr. Adanu assured members of the agency’s readiness to address public complaints relating to environmental issues in the state.
Bridget Udoo Tarker
For: Head of Centre
Federal Information Centre, Makurdi
