The Chief of Staff to Abia State Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, has charged the leadership of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to deepen public sensitization and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to enhance the use of data for national development.
Pastor Ajagba who gave the charge at Government House Umuahia, when he received a delegation from NIMC, led by the State Coordinator, Mr. Ukpabi Eni, commended them for their efforts in driving identity management across the nation.
The Chief of Staff to the Governor while describing data as the bedrock of meaningful development, underscored the importance of reliable data in planning, security management, and political development, and urged the Commission to go beyond mere data collection to advising governments on its proper application.
He further called for greater collaboration between NIMC and other agencies including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security outfits, adding that data can be a powerful tool for tackling challenges including insecurity and electoral malpractices.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mr Matthew Ekwuribe, disclosed that proper use of the National Identification Number (NIN) could help government programs become more targeted and effective, pointing out that data can also guide empowerment initiatives, inform policies on crime prevention, and ensure that government resources are channeled to areas where they are mostly needed.
He maintained that the Commission’s work would also be critical in reforming how government engages with citizens, as accurate data provides the basis for transparency and accountability.
In his speech, the State Coordinator of National Identity Management Commission, Mr. Ukpabi Eni, said their visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with key stakeholders in the state, adding that NIMC considers the State Government a vital partner in its mandate of identity management.
Mr Eni while outlining the Commission’s commitment to expanding its reach across the State and improving public awareness about the importance of the National Identification Number (NIN), lauded the state government for its openness to integrating identity management into governance.
In a vote of thanks, the Principal Officer of NIMC, Government House Umuahia, Princess Glad Apugo-Osoagbaka, thanked Governor Alex Otti for his infrastructural strides across the state as well as appreciated Pastor Ajagba for his contributions which have further strengthened their resolve to improve awareness and implementation of the National Identification Number campaign in the state.
