Millions of Nigerians still lack identity despite 67.8m BVN — Expert

Nigerians still remain without a formal identity, raising concerns about financial inclusion, national planning, and access to essential services. This was the position of industry experts who argue that while progress has been made, significant gaps persist in Nigeria’s identity management system.

The BVN system, introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), was designed to provide a unique identifier for individuals within the banking system. It has played a critical role in strengthening financial security, reducing fraud, and improving the integrity of banking operations. However, experts note that BVN coverage does not equate to universal identity coverage, as it is limited primarily to individuals with access to banking services.

Nigeria’s population is estimated to exceed 200 million people, meaning that even with 67.8 million BVNs issued, a large proportion of citizens remain outside the formal identity ecosystem. These individuals are often found in rural areas, informal sectors, and underserved communities where access to banking infrastructure is limited. As a result, they are excluded from many financial and government services that require formal identification.

 

According to stakeholders in the identity management space, the challenge goes beyond banking. A comprehensive national identity system requires integration across multiple platforms, including civil registration, telecommunications, and government databases. While initiatives such as the National Identity Number (NIN) aim to address this gap, progress has been uneven.

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), responsible for issuing NINs, has intensified efforts to enroll more Nigerians into the national identity database. However, logistical challenges, limited enrollment centers, and public awareness issues have slowed the process. Experts argue that scaling up infrastructure and simplifying registration procedures are essential for achieving broader coverage.

One of the key implications of limited identity coverage is its impact on financial inclusion. Without a recognized form of identification, individuals are unable to open bank accounts, access credit, or participate fully in the formal economy. This not only affects personal economic opportunities but also limits the overall growth potential of the financial sector.

Beyond finance, lack of identity also affects access to government services. Social intervention programs, healthcare services, and educational opportunities often require some form of identification for eligibility. Without it, millions of Nigerians are effectively excluded from these benefits, exacerbating inequality and limiting social mobility.

Experts also highlight the importance of identity systems in national planning and security. Accurate population data is essential for effective policymaking, resource allocation, and infrastructure development. Without a comprehensive identity database, it becomes difficult for the government to accurately assess the needs of its population and design targeted interventions.

Digital transformation efforts in Nigeria further underscore the need for a robust identity system. As more services move online, digital identity becomes a critical enabler of participation in the digital economy. From mobile banking to e-government platforms, identity verification is a foundational requirement. Ensuring that more Nigerians are included in the identity system is therefore essential for the success of these initiatives.

The integration of BVN with NIN has been one of the government’s key strategies for strengthening identity management. By linking these databases, authorities aim to create a more unified and reliable system that can support both financial and administrative functions. While progress has been made, experts note that challenges related to data accuracy, duplication, and system interoperability remain.

Another issue raised by stakeholders is public trust. Concerns about data privacy and security can discourage individuals from enrolling in identity programs. Experts stress the need for transparent policies, strong data protection frameworks, and effective communication to build confidence among citizens.

To address these challenges, there have been calls for greater collaboration between government agencies, financial institutions, and private sector players. Expanding enrollment centers, leveraging mobile technology, and partnering with community organizations could significantly accelerate the registration process. Innovative approaches, such as mobile enrollment units, may also help reach remote and underserved populations.

Funding and political will are also critical factors. Sustained investment in identity infrastructure is necessary to achieve nationwide coverage. Experts argue that identity management should be treated as a national priority, given its far-reaching implications for economic development, security, and governance.

While the milestone of 67.8 million BVNs reflects progress, it also highlights the scale of the challenge ahead. Bridging the identity gap will require coordinated efforts, strategic planning, and a commitment to inclusivity. Ensuring that every Nigerian has access to a recognized form of identification is not only a matter of administrative efficiency but also a fundamental step toward social and economic empowerment.

As Nigeria continues to pursue digital and financial transformation, the importance of a comprehensive identity system cannot be overstated. The success of initiatives aimed at improving financial inclusion, enhancing service delivery, and driving economic growth will depend largely on the ability to bring more citizens into the formal identity framework.