The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS), in collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), has introduced an innovative National Identity Number (NIN)-enabled farmer registry and Government-to-People (G2P) card system. This groundbreaking initiative is part of the government’s commitment to ensuring food security under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The newly launched registry aims to address identity challenges that often hinder effective support for farmers. By integrating NIN-linked biometric data, the registry will create a comprehensive database of farmers, capturing vital information such as farmland size, crop or livestock type, and other agricultural metrics.

The G2P card ecosystem is central to this initiative. It enables the issuance of biometric cards with multiple digital wallets, providing secure identification and facilitating transactions even in areas with limited internet connectivity. This ensures that farmers, regardless of location, can access government aid and other benefits seamlessly.

How It Works

The G2P card is tailored to deliver a wide range of agricultural services, including:

• Input distribution and financing.
• Farmland mapping linked to farmer identity.
• Monitoring and evaluation of extension services.
• Agency banking and additional third-party services.

Each card is personalized, making it unique to every farmer. The advanced technology ensures transparency, reduces fraud, and provides the ministry with a clear view of the agricultural value chain.

Cutting-Edge Features

The G2P card is equipped with a high-capacity chip that stores biometric data, Know Your Customer (KYC) details, fingerprints, and photographs. It also features two applets and multiple wallets, allowing for flexible and diverse program implementations under a unified identity.

This design is particularly significant in overcoming infrastructure challenges, enabling the Ministry to deliver support to farmers in remote locations efficiently. The card doubles as a prepaid card or digital wallet, facilitating transactions for subsidies, loans, and other financial assistance programs.

Collaboration and Vision

FMAFS, as the primary custodian, will manage the farmer registry and administer the G2P cards at both national and sub-national levels. NIMC will provide the foundational identity framework required for secure and accurate data integration.

Through this initiative, the ministry aims to foster inclusivity, streamline service delivery, and enhance transparency across the agricultural sector. By leveraging technology, the government is taking a significant step toward empowering farmers and addressing food security challenges in Nigeria.

A Glimpse Into the Future

In addition to the G2P card, the federal government is also planning to introduce a multipurpose ID card powered by AFRIGO, a Nigerian card company. This card will serve as both an identification tool and a financial transaction medium, further revolutionizing the way government services are accessed.

The NIN-linked farmer registry and G2P card initiative mark a pivotal moment in Nigerian agriculture, promising a more efficient, transparent, and farmer-focused approach to service delivery.