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NITDA has transferred Nigeria’s Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) to NIMC, strengthening the country’s digital identity security framework under the newly amended NIMC Act.
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The handover positions NIMC as Nigeria’s Root Certification Authority, giving it responsibility for securing digital identities and electronic trust services.
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The move is expected to support safer digital public services, improve identity verification, and accelerate the government’s digital transformation agenda.
July 17, (THEWILL) — The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has formally transferred Nigeria’s Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) framework to the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), marking a significant step in strengthening the country’s digital identity security architecture.
The handover, announced during a ceremony at NITDA’s headquarters in Abuja, is expected to enhance the secure verification of digital identities as the Federal Government expands digital public services under the newly amended National Identity Management Commission Act.
The transition places NIMC at the centre of Nigeria’s digital identity ecosystem, reinforcing its mandate to oversee identity authentication and trusted digital transactions nationwide.
NIMC Assumes Responsibility for National PKI
Speaking during the handover ceremony, NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi said the transfer reflects the agency’s commitment to supporting government institutions through technology-driven collaboration.
He explained that NITDA had undertaken significant work in developing both the Public Key Infrastructure and Digital Public Infrastructure frameworks and would continue working closely with NIMC to ensure a smooth transition.
According to Abdullahi, digital public infrastructure has become as essential to national development as physical infrastructure, making secure and reliable identity systems critical to Nigeria’s digital economy.
He added that NITDA would continue supporting government institutions through innovation, technology adoption, and digital transformation initiatives.
New NIMC Act Expands Commission’s Digital Identity Role)
The transfer follows President Bola Tinubu’s signing of the National Identity Management Commission Act 2026, which significantly expands NIMC’s responsibilities.
Under the new legislation, NIMC becomes Nigeria’s Root Certification Authority for the National Public Key Infrastructure and Digital Public Infrastructure, placing the Commission at the centre of the country’s digital identity, authentication and electronic trust framework.
The Act also seeks to harmonise identity databases across government agencies while establishing the National Identification Number (NIN) as the primary means of identity verification for public service delivery.
NIMC Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Engr. (Dr.) Abisoye Coker Odusote described the legislation as a major milestone that shifts Nigeria from a traditional identity database to a modern, secure digital identity ecosystem.
She said the transition would be implemented in phases to protect citizens’ data while improving interoperability, efficiency, and public confidence.
Collaboration Targets Safer Digital Public Services
Both agencies said the collaboration would accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation by combining NIMC’s expanded identity management responsibilities with NITDA’s role in technology regulation and ecosystem development.
Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) provides the digital security framework that enables trusted online identity verification, secure electronic transactions, and encrypted communication.
Officials said integrating the technology into NIMC’s operations would strengthen the security of Nigeria’s growing digital public infrastructure while supporting more efficient delivery of government services to citizens.
As Nigeria expands digital service delivery, the transition is expected to improve trust, reduce identity fraud, and provide a stronger foundation for secure digital interactions across both the public and private sectors.
Ogochukwu Onwaeze is a writer specializing in business and economic journalism. At THEWILL News Media, she translates market trends, financial developments, and policy shifts into clear and engaging stories.
