NIMC Fee Hike Sparks Outrage as ‘Ease of Doing Business’ Feels Like Extortion

In the shadow of Nigeria’s celebrated “Ease of Doing Business” policy lies a sobering truth: ordinary citizens are bearing the rising cost of basic services, while slogans of reform remain just that—slogans.

Over the last decade, Nigerians were told to expect better service delivery, less bureaucracy, and a more affordable, citizen-friendly system. But today, from Lagos to Lokoja, the story on the ground is different. It’s one of rising costs, limited access, and a growing gap between policy promises and lived realities.

Take the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), for example. After more than ten years of keeping its charges steady, NIMC recently announced a new wave of price hikes for services related to the National Identification Number (NIN), including data modifications. Starting May 2nd, Nigerians will have to dig deeper into their pockets—not because they want to, but because they must. The Commission claims it’s adjusting to “industry standards” and increasing operational costs.

But for many, the justification is irrelevant. The timing is cruel.

Young Nigerians gathered in the heart of Lagos last weekend, questioning not just the new fees, but the entire essence of the NIMC. “What is the point of a national ID that we are forced to pay so much to maintain?” asked Chinedu, a recent graduate still job-hunting. “Is this system built for us—or for profit?”

They demanded answers about the real benefits of holding a NIN, especially for low-income citizens who make up the majority. With inflation eating into wages, they say the hike isn’t just unfair—it’s exploitative.

And where is the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) in all this? The same FCCPC that often swings into action when private businesses adjust prices has remained conspicuously silent. Many citizens wonder if the agency has one rule for the private sector and another for public institutions. What’s unacceptable for a telecom company or a retailer seems perfectly fine when done by a government agency.

Corruption, they argue, finds fertile ground in these conditions. As government agencies keep hiking service fees, citizens—already stretched to the limit—will do whatever it takes to raise the funds, legal or not. Desperation breeds distortion.

So, as Nigerians brace for yet another round of price adjustments, one question echoes louder than ever: Is the Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria merely a façade when the cost of basic identification becomes a burden?

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