The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has selected SecureID, a Lagos-based company, as the primary manufacturer of the National Domestic Card Scheme, AfriGo Card. This identity solution integrates payment functionality to provide access to social and financial services.
In collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Inter-bank Settlement System (NIBSS), the appointment aims to fulfill the mandate of the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, which involves issuing a General Multipurpose Card (GMPC) to Nigerians and legal residents.
The AfriGo Card, layered with verifiable national identity features, serves as the country’s default national identity card. It enables cardholders to prove their identity, access government and private services, promote financial inclusion, and encourage participation in nation-building initiatives.
Only registered citizens and legal residents with the National Identification Number (NIN) will be eligible to request the card, which adheres to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. Additionally, the card functions as a debit or prepaid card, facilitating financial transactions by linking to bank accounts.
Key features of the AfriGo Card include machine-readable zone (MRZ) for e-passport information, biometric authentication through fingerprint and pictures, offline capability for transactions in areas with limited network coverage, and functionality as both a debit and prepaid card.
Requests for cards will be available online, at commercial banks, participating agencies or agents, and NIMC offices nationwide, ensuring accessibility for all eligible individuals. NIMC emphasizes data protection and compliance with international standards on data security protocols to safeguard cardholders’ personal information.