National identification is a fundamental right for citizens of any country. It serves as proof of identity, facilitates access to government services, and ensures proper documentation of a nation’s population. In Nigeria, however, the practice of requiring citizens to pay for their National ID Cards raises significant questions about governance and equity.
*1. Government Responsibility to Its Citizens*A functional government has the duty to provide essential services like national identification without placing financial burdens on its citizens. The National ID card is not a luxury; it is a necessity for economic, social, and civic participation. Forcing citizens to pay undermines this principle and creates barriers for low-income Nigerians who struggle to afford such fees.
2. Evidence of Mismanagement and Corruption
The idea of paying for a National ID card in a resource-rich country like Nigeria points to systemic inefficiencies and corruption. Nigeria generates significant revenue from natural resources and taxation. Where are these funds being allocated if not to basic services like ID card production? Charging citizens for their identity cards suggests a mismanagement of public resources and a lack of accountability within government agencies.
3. Global Comparisons
In many developed nations, citizens receive their national ID cards as part of a free and streamlined public service. Even in some African countries, identification services are provided at little or no cost. Why should Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, fail to offer the same?
4. Call to Action
The Nigerian government must stop monetizing what should be a public good. It is time to demand transparency in public spending and to advocate for free and accessible National ID cards for all Nigerians. Any administration that perpetuates this practice of charging for National ID cards demonstrates a lack of commitment to the welfare of its citizens.
Providing free National ID cards is not just a policy decision—it is a matter of national pride and respect for citizens. As Nigerians, we must hold our leaders accountable and demand the services we deserve.