- Nigerians abroad seek deadline extension for NIN-BVN linkage due to logistical and financial hurdles, exacerbated by COVID-19 travel restrictions
- WUCO President emphasizes lack of provisions for diaspora Nigerians, urging alternative processes and remote linkage options for compliance
Nigerians living abroad are calling on the federal government to extend the deadline for linking their National Identity Number (NIN) with their Bank Verification Number (BVN), citing logistical and financial challenges.
At a recent press briefing, Clement Osuya, President of the World United Consumer Organization (WUCO), emphasized that while the initiative aimed to streamline processes, it failed to account for the unique circumstances faced by Nigerians in the diaspora.
Osuya highlighted that the current directive lacks provisions for individuals with limited access to enrollment centers, particularly those outside Nigeria. He emphasized that this places significant burdens on diaspora Nigerians, necessitating physical visits to NIN centers for biometric capture.
“The requirement poses logistical and financial challenges for Nigerians abroad,” Osuya stated. “The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting travel restrictions have further complicated compliance with the NIN registration deadline.”
With over 70 million accounts at risk of being blocked for non-compliance, Osuya stressed the urgent need for alternative processes or remote linkage options for diaspora Nigerians.
He added, “The lack of consideration for the diverse circumstances of Nigerian bank customers, especially those residing outside the country, is deeply concerning.”
Osuya urged an immediate review of the directive, calling upon the Central Bank of Nigeria to introduce accessible means for diaspora Nigerians to link their NIN with their accounts.
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