The World Bank is restructuring its Nigeria Digital Identification for Development (ID4D) project, extending the deadline to 2026 after the initial June 30, 2024, closure date passed without meeting key targets. Despite significant progress, Nigeria failed to enroll 148 million people for a National Identification Number (NIN), prompting the extension to ensure the project’s success and continued financing from partners.
The Nigeria Digital Identification for Development (ID4D) project, funded by the World Bank, the French Development Agency (AFD), and the European Investment Bank (EIB), aims to enhance Nigeria’s digital identity infrastructure. Initially set to close on June 30, 2024, the project faced several setbacks, including missing the goal of enrolling 148 million people for NINs.
Challenges and Missed Targets
Despite considerable efforts, Nigeria’s enrollment numbers fell short of expectations. Key components of the project, such as the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS), reached full capacity at 80 million records, necessitating an upgrade to handle 250 million enrollments. Technical benchmarks under Component 2, aimed at strengthening the resilience and security of the Nigeria Identity Management System (NIMS), also experienced delays.
Extension and Restructuring
To ensure continuity and secure the full $430 million funding, the World Bank has extended the project’s closure date to June 30, 2026. This extension allows for the completion of crucial upgrades and the incorporation of changes reflecting Nigeria’s current priorities. Certain activities under the restructured project, such as collaborations on digitized civil registration and the development of new mechanisms for continuous digital birth registration, will be canceled.
Financing and Conditions
So far, the World Bank has disbursed $45.5 million, approximately 10.5% of the project’s total cost. Two of the three conditions for full disbursement have been met: the enactment of a data protection law and improvements to the NIMS. The final condition, amending the NIMC Act to ensure an inclusive legal framework, is pending approval by the National Assembly.
Future Focus
With the project’s extension, the focus will shift to enhancing the capacity of the NIMS and ensuring the issuance of NINs within Nigeria. The project also aims to increase NIN enrollment in rural areas and train government personnel in best practices for legal and regulatory environments concerning foundational ID and data protection.
Bottom Line
The restructuring and extension of the ID4D project underscore the World Bank’s commitment to improving Nigeria’s digital identity infrastructure. By addressing the current challenges and realigning project goals with Nigeria’s priorities, the World Bank aims to foster transparency, efficiency, and effectiveness in governance and public service delivery. The successful completion of this project is crucial for Nigeria’s digital future, ensuring that millions of citizens gain access to essential digital services.
