National database risks shutdown at NIMC over cash crunch

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) may be forced to shut down its database due to power outage and inability to fuel its power generating set.

While on a visit to the commission’s headquarters in Abuja, on Thursday, Nigerian Tribune noticed outright blackout and was told that the generator supplying the entire building was faulty, as it had been overstretched in terms of capacity.

It was gathered that this had been the trend for about two weeks, with no possible solution.

It was also gathered that the commission had stopped printing the e-Identity card due to lack of funds.

Meanwhile, during an interview with the General Manager, Operations, NIMC, Mr Abdulhamid Umar, he denied that the commission had stopped printing.

While also expressing shock over cases where banks do not accept the NIN slip as a form of identification in banks, he blamed this on lack of enforcement.

He, however, said the commission was in the process of taking this up with the Federal Government , expressing hope that this was promptly addressed.