The General Multipurpose Card (GMPC) is designed to simplify identification and eliminate the need for multiple cards.

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has announced plans to introduce an upgraded national identity card, the General Multipurpose Card (GMPC), within the year.

In a statement, the agency described the GMPC as a streamlined and efficient solution that combines multiple functions into one card, eliminating the need for multiple identification cards.

“The innovative card, developed in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Inter-bank Settlement System (NIBSS), will be powered by AfriGO, a national domestic card scheme licensed by the CBN to provide cost-effective and transparent card payments,” the statement revealed.

Currently, 26 commercial and microfinance banks across Nigeria are issuing AfriGO cards.

According to NIMC, the GMPC will enable cardholders to easily prove their identity and access both government and private-sector social services.

The agency also disclosed ongoing discussions with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to explore the possibility of merging voter identification with the GMPC, creating a unified solution for Nigerians.

This innovative step is expected to significantly simplify identification processes while promoting accessibility and transparency in various sectors.