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Patience Jonathan Receives National Identity Card

November 20, 2014

Nigeria's First Lady Patience Jonathan received her National Electronic Identity Card yesterday in Abuja.

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Director-General of the National Identity Management Commission, Chris Onyemenam, presented her with the activated ID card.

The National Electronic Identity card was launched in August 2014. 

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At the launch in Abuja, President Jonathan said "The card is not only a means of certifying your identity, but also a personal database repository and payment card, all in your pocket."

All Nigerians will have to have these new identity cards by 2019 if they want to vote. The card can also be used to make electronic payments.

The Nigerian Identity Management Commission is planning to integrate the card with various government bases including those for voter registration, driver licenses, health insurance, taxes and pensions.