Abia Chief of Staff Advocates Stronger Data Synergy Between NIMC, INEC, and Security Agencies

Caleb Ajagba, Chief of Staff to the Governor of Abia State, has emphasized the need for deeper cooperation among the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and security agencies to enhance data management and national development efforts. He made this call during a courtesy visit by the Abia State NIMC Coordinator, Ukpabi Eni, and his delegation at the Government House in Umuahia.

Ajagba stressed that accurate and reliable data is foundational to national planning, security, and credible elections. He lamented Nigeria’s longstanding data challenges, noting, “We still don’t have a definitive population figure. Without reliable data, meaningful planning becomes nearly impossible.” He called for increased public awareness and multi-agency collaboration to maximize the impact of data systems.

Responding, NIMC Coordinator Ukpabi Eni stated that the visit aimed to strengthen collaboration with the Abia State Government. He praised the administration’s support for identity management initiatives and its effort to incorporate the National Identity Number (NIN) into governance structures. Eni reiterated the NIN’s role in fostering effective planning, security, and service delivery.

This renewed push for inter-agency cooperation reflects Nigeria’s broader goal to streamline data infrastructure and improve governance outcomes across the country.