The House of Representatives has announced plans to increase funding for key government agencies, including the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), in the 2025 Appropriation Bill.
Deputy Spokesman of the House, Rep. Philip Agbese, disclosed this initiative during a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, emphasizing that these agencies play crucial roles in Nigeria’s socio-economic and security framework.
“We are advocating for increased funding for the National Identity Management Commission, the National Youth Service Corps, and the Nigerian Defence Academy in the 2025 budget proposal. Other government agencies may also benefit from this initiative,” Agbese stated.
Prioritizing National Development
Agbese highlighted the importance of NIMC in establishing a comprehensive national database, noting that inadequate funding has hindered its operations. He stressed that a robust digital identity system is essential for national planning, security, and economic development.
“Many Nigerians may not fully understand the significance of NIMC, but we cannot achieve a robust national data system without empowering this agency,” he said.
On the NYSC, he underscored the need to sustain the program’s objectives, calling for adequate financial support to ensure its continued impact on youth development. Additionally, he pointed out the necessity of strengthening the NDA and other military institutions to enhance Nigeria’s defense capabilities.
“At a time when terrorists are adopting new strategies despite the gallantry of our troops, we must devise means to outsmart them. One way to achieve this is by increasing funding for institutions tasked with building the capacity of our security forces to address evolving challenges,” he explained.
Addressing Budgetary Constraints
Agbese also acknowledged the funding challenges faced by several agencies due to the existing budget envelope system, which he said has been insufficient to meet their capital expenditure needs. He revealed that in addition to the NIMC, NYSC, and NDA, the House is also considering increased allocations for Nigeria’s foreign missions under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Aviation.
He urged Nigerians to remain optimistic, assuring them that the Federal Government, with the backing of the National Assembly, is committed to improving national welfare and economic stability.
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“We encourage Nigerians to stay hopeful. The current economic challenges will soon give way to better days as the government is committed to making life more enjoyable for all citizens in the shortest possible time,” he said.
The Funding Gap
The NIMC has struggled with inadequate funding for years, delaying the nationwide registration of citizens for the National Identification Number (NIN). The current progress in digital identity registration has been largely driven by the World Bank-supervised Identity for Development (ID4D) project, a $430 million initiative co-financed by the French Development Agency (AFD), the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the International Development Association (IDA).
Under the financing arrangement, AFD is contributing $100 million, the EIB is providing $215 million, and the IDA, an arm of the World Bank, is adding $115 million to support the digital ID infrastructure in Nigeria.
With the proposed budget increase, the House of Representatives aims to ensure sustainable funding for these critical agencies, enhancing national security, youth development, and digital identity management.