Your national identity card is probably ready, but you do not know it. According to the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), if you registered for the national ID card a long time ago (like 4 years ago or more), then you can check if it is available online.

What is a National ID card?

A national identity card is a handy document (which is a typical plastic card with digitally embedded information) that every country issues to her resident or citizen to carry as a means of identification.

The NIMC has created a hassle-free process for everyone who participated in the enrollment to check if their permanent National ID card is available. You can check the status of your ID card online on the NIMC portal.

Below are the requirements to check your card availability status:

1. Laptop or Smartphone (Android, iOS, Windows, etc.)
2. Internet connection (with enough internet data)
3. Full name (First and Last)
4. Last 6 digits of your ID number (remember, the number consist 11 digits and can be found on your
5. Temporary ID card {paper printout}, 14673******)
6. Knowledge of internet usage

There is now a national identity management system where you can check if your National ID card is available using the following simple steps:

1. Visit NIMC centre: https://touch.nimc.gov.ng/
2. Then click the Proceed button Now,
3. Fill in your first name, last name and your NIMC tracking ID and hit the ‘check now button’

Not long ago, a NIMC representative outlined the advantages of the new national identity card.

Apart from many other things, you can use it in an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card anywhere in the world where MasterCard logo is available.

Briefing journalists today in Abuja, NIMC’s Director of Technical Services, Mr Emmanuel Ogungbe revealed that the Commission has already signed an agreement with MasterCard.

He explained that, besides being just a Nigerian national ID card, it is also a cash card, so the holder can withdraw money in any place. Moreover, especially within the West African sub-region, it soon would become possible to travel with this card only, passport-free.

I registered for National ID Card but I have not gotten it yet. This is a common complaint among thousands of Nigerians who make attempt to get their national Id card. Some persons even do not get their National ID 10 years after they have registered. But with the above steps, I believe you will be able to get yours on time.