Tinubu Signs New NIMC Act 2026 Into Law

President Bola Tinubu has signed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026 into law, introducing wide-ranging reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s digital identity ecosystem, enhancing cybersecurity and supporting the country’s digital economy.

The new law repeals the NIMC Act of 2007 and establishes a modern legal framework designed to align Nigeria’s identity management system with global best practices, emerging technologies and the demands of an increasingly digital economy.

Announcing the development in a statement on Friday, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) said the legislation marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.

“This landmark legislation marks a transformative milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards a secure, inclusive and digitally empowered nation,” the Commission said.

A major provision of the Act designates NIMC as the Root Certification Authority for Nigeria’s National Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), making the Commission the country’s trusted authority for secure digital identity, authentication and electronic trust services across government and private-sector platforms.

“The Act further empowers NIMC to ensure secure, interoperable and seamless data exchange among all public and private entities, laying the legal and institutional foundation for a trusted digital economy,” the statement added.

According to the Commission, the legislation supports the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda by accelerating digital transformation, strengthening national security, expanding financial and social inclusion, improving public service delivery and supporting Nigeria’s ambition of building a one-trillion-dollar economy.

NIMC said the new law became necessary because the digital landscape has changed significantly since the enactment of the 2007 Act, with growing demands for stronger data protection, cybersecurity and trusted digital services.