NIN-SIM linkage will assist us to identify ‘crooks’, Buhari declares

President Muhammadu Buhari, on Thursday, disclosed that the ongoing linkage of National Identification Number (NIN) with SIM cards across the nation will assist the country to effortlessly recognise individuals, including the criminals.

Buhari, thus, appealed to Nigerians to completely partake in the exercise which he stated will offer a digital framework for enhancing security and reinforcing the economy.

The President talked while launching the National Policy for the Promotion of Indigenous Content in Nigerian Telecoms Sector and Revised National Identity Policy for SIM Cards registration at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Buhari declared that appropriate identification of all Nigerians and legal citizens in the nation and the capability to easily access a database would offer a drive for more efficient preparation and security error.

He said, “The NIN will cover one of the weaknesses in our security structure. We will be able to easily identify and know the personality of Nigerians. We will identify people easily, including the crooks.”

The President stated that the launching of the Revised National Digital Identity Policy for SIM Card registration was timely and would aid measures taken to boost security and improve the economy.

He added, “The National Identification Number is the foundational digital ID for the country; both Nigerian citizens and legal residents are expected to obtain the NIN. It will provide access to government services and will give government useful insights that will enable us to utilize scarce resources in a more efficient way.”