The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Identification Management Commission (NIMC), Engineer Abisoye Coker-Odusote, has reassured Nigerians that robust measures are in place to safeguard the nation’s database from cyber threats.
She spoke at the opening of a two-day roundtable with publishers of online newspapers Wednesday in Abuja. “Let me use this medium to, once again, reassure Nigerians, at home, and in the diaspora that robust measures are in place to safeguard the nation’s database from cyber threats,” she said.
Engr Coker-Odusote dismissed claims of data breach at the commission, noting that NIMC would never negotiate with the data and identity of any Nigerian for whatever reason.
She said that the commission is committed to transparency and accountability, adding that robust mechanisms have been instituted for participation, grievance redress and regular monitoring to enhance operational performance and mitigate social risks.
“Our grievance redress system includes a centralized grievance register, a contact centre, and multiple channels for submitting complaints.
“This system ensures that queries are addressed promptly, problems with implementation are resolved efficiently, and complaints from ecosystem partners are effectively managed.
“NIMC under my watch is committed to complying with all extant laws and regulations governing the protection of data in Nigeria.
“So far, we have done so much towards ensuring compliance with the highest standards of data security, sanitizing the system and processes, while ensuring the integrity of data on the country’s identity database.
“We shall not rest on our oars. Let me at this point, thank the online publishers for all the support you have been giving to the commission, particularly, since I assumed office at NIMC.
“We do not take this for granted. While we take deliberate steps towards deepening our engagements with you, rest assured of our commitment to the highest standards of professionalism in the implementation of NIMC’s mandate.
“My administration has zero tolerance for corruption. I hereby reiterate my commitment to sanitizing NIMC, in conformity with the mandate of Mr. President,” she said.
The NIMC boss also said “As publishers of online newspapers, you are at the forefront of this effort. Your platforms are instrumental in educating the public about our activities, operations, and the benefits of a robust national identity management system.
“Taking advantage of this meeting, we hope to provide you with comprehensive insights into NIMC’s activities, objectives, strategies, achievements, and challenges.
“This knowledge is vital for you to disseminate accurate information to the public.
“It is also expected that we discuss your roles in the forthcoming NIMC Ecosystem Enrolment exercise, ensuring you understand how you can contribute to this national effort.
“We are also deliberate about establishing a relationship that will help prevent misinformation about NIMC’s activities and clear up any existing misconceptions, thereby maintaining public trust.
“It is our intention to build strategic communication bridges between NIMC and online publishers, facilitating effective information dissemination.
“NIMC, under my watch, seeks to foster a friendly and collaborative atmosphere that will lead to more positive coverage and support from the media.”
She also revealed the commission’s determination to have all Nigerians registered in the country ‘s database is inline with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), which seeks to ensure that everyone on the earth planet has a form of identity by 2030
