NIN/BVN linkage: Consider Nigerians in diaspora, FG urged

The federal government has been urged to extend the deadline for linkage of the National Identity Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN) to enable Nigerians in the diaspora to do theirs.

Speaking during a press briefing yesterday, President of the World United Consumer Organization (WUCO), Clement Osuya, said the initiative, even though established with good intentions, failed to consider the unique challenges Nigerians living abroad face.

Osuya said the directive does not include adequate provisions for those with remote access to their funds.

“This requirement significantly burdens Nigerians, especially those residing abroad, as it mandates them to visit enrollment centres for biometric capture at NIN centres physically. As such, it presents substantial logistical and financial challenges for diaspora Nigerians.”

He said compliance with the NIN registration deadline has been made exceedingly difficult due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting travel restrictions, further exacerbating the struggles of diaspora Nigerians.

“It is imperative to highlight that over 70 million accounts are at risk of being blocked if they are not linked with the NIN. Yet, there are no explicit provisions for remote linkage or alternative processes for Nigerians in the diaspora.”

He said the lack of consideration for the diverse circumstances of Nigerian bank customers, especially those residing outside the country, is deeply concerning.

He, therefore, demanded an immediate review of the prevailing directive and called upon the Central Bank of Nigeria to introduce robust and accessible means for Nigerians outside the country who do not have a National Identification Number (NIN) to link their NIN to their accounts.