Tinubu Rejects NIMC Establishment Bill Over Legal Flaws

Tinubu Rejects NIMC Establishment Bill Over Legal Flaws
One of the major issues he raised was with the long title of the bill
The President also took issue with a section requiring Senate confirmation for the appointment of the Chairman and Executive Commissioners

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declined to sign the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Establishment Bill, 2026 into law, citing a number of legal and structural concerns in the proposed legislation.

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Eko Hot Blog reports that the President’s decision was formally communicated to the National Assembly in a letter read during plenary by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.

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According to the letter, Tinubu acknowledged that parts of the bill were well put together but said it contained several inconsistencies and omissions that could create confusion and affect how the law would work if passed in its current form.

One of the major issues he raised was with the long title of the bill. While it mentions repealing the existing NIMC Act, it does not clearly state that the law is also meant to reenact it, something the President said should have been properly reflected in line with legislative drafting standards.

He also pointed out problems with sections dealing with the structure of the commission’s governing board. For instance, some members were wrongly listed as presidential appointees, even though they are supposed to serve automatically by virtue of their positions.

Another concern was the provision for four Executive Commissioners, which, according to Tinubu, does not clearly state who appoints them or what qualifications they must have raising questions about accountability for such key roles.

The President also took issue with a section requiring Senate confirmation for the appointment of the Chairman and Executive Commissioners. He described this as inconsistent with the Constitution, noting that such appointments fall within the President’s powers and should not require legislative approval.

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Beyond appointments, Tinubu highlighted ambiguities around the role of the Director-General, saying it is unclear whether the position is meant to be part of the board, serve as its secretary, or both.

He further criticised how the bill handles regulatory powers, noting that separating the commission’s ability to make regulations from issuing guidelines could unnecessarily limit its effectiveness.

Other concerns included vague definitions such as that of a “supervising authority” and an incomplete section meant to establish the law’s supremacy over other conflicting laws.

Tinubu also warned that removing the definition of “Minister,” which exists in the current NIMC Act, could create confusion about oversight and policy direction for the commission.

In conclusion, the President urged lawmakers to revisit the bill, fix the identified issues, and ensure it aligns fully with constitutional provisions and proper legislative standards before resubmitting it for assent.