NIMC Grants Licence to NCoS for Inmate NIN Registration
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has authorized the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) to register inmates in all 256 custodial centers nationwide for National Identity Numbers (NIN).
The Acting Controller General of the NCoS, Mr. Sylvester Nwakuche, secured the licence during a visit to the NIMC Director General, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, in Abuja.
Nwakuche emphasized that registering inmates for NIN would address their exclusion from national development plans, enhance their security, and simplify identification in cases of jailbreaks.
“This collaboration ensures that inmates, including those pursuing advanced education like university degrees, master’s, and PhDs, are not left out of national development initiatives. They should be reintegrated into society to contribute meaningfully to their families and the nation,” Nwakuche said.
He also highlighted the inclusion of inmates awaiting trial, stating that they should not be excluded from participating in national planning, census, and other developmental programs.
NIMC Director General, Coker-Odusote, affirmed the importance of NIN for national development, noting its integration into various socio-economic policies, including linking bank accounts and student loans to prevent fraud.
“NIN is critical to achieving the government’s digital identity agenda and facilitating effective service delivery. We are committed to supporting the NCoS to ensure the seamless execution of its mandate,” she stated.
Coker-Odusote expressed satisfaction with the partnership, noting similar collaborations with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and other agencies to enhance constitutional service delivery.
The licence is expected to bolster ongoing reforms in the correctional system and ensure the inclusion of inmates in critical national initiatives.
