In a renewed effort to enhance security and governance, the Federal Government has announced plans to roll out a Proof of Address System across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas.
The initiative aims to provide every resident with a verifiable and secure address, improving public administration and private-sector operations.
At a stakeholders’ sensitization meeting in Lagos on Monday, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.
Akume, who was represented by Helen Gapriya, a Director in the SGF’s office, stated that the inability to accurately identify addresses has hindered crime prevention, community security, and efficient development planning.
“This initiative will strengthen national security, improve government planning, and foster a more orderly society. Besides, by enabling accurate identification and location verification, it will help curb various societal vices, contributing to a safer and more structured environment for all,” Akume said.
The Proof of Address System, he explained, is a key component of national identity management, aiming to modernize governance, reduce dependency on physical documents, and streamline administrative processes.
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Also speaking at the event, Bello Lawal, the National Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), represented by Lagos State ALGON Secretary Razak Ajala, underscored the significance of the initiative in boosting national security, financial inclusion, and economic development.
“The Proof of Address System is not just another bureaucratic exercise. It is a vital element of civil registration and national data infrastructure. With verifiable proof of residence, we can enhance planning, drive financial inclusion, and accelerate economic growth,” Lawal noted.
The government says the initiative will not only help combat insecurity but also improve essential service delivery at the grassroots level.
The implementation is expected to enhance trust in financial transactions, facilitate investment opportunities, and create a more structured society.
With growing concerns over insecurity and ineffective governance, the Federal Government believes that the Proof of Address System will serve as a strategic tool to address long-standing challenges and lay the foundation for sustainable development.