By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called for better integration of Bank Verification Number (BVN) and Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) registration data to improve public services and deliver greater benefits to Nigerians.
Mrs Yetunde Adeyemo, Senior Manager, Regulatory Services at the NCC, made the call during a question-and-answer session at a conference organised by the Finance and Business Online Publishers (FiBOP) Association.
Adeyemo said Nigeria had collected substantial personal data through various government agencies and institutions, but effectively integrating the information for practical use remained a major challenge.
She stressed that collecting data alone was not enough, adding that relevant institutions needed to harmonise existing records and ensure they were used effectively to achieve meaningful results.
According to her, stronger accountability among government institutions and individuals was necessary to ensure that available data resources translated into tangible benefits for the country.
Adeyemo called on government representatives, ministries, financial institutions and the media to collaborate in promoting a better understanding of how data integration could improve service delivery and the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
She emphasised that stakeholders must take responsibility for ensuring that information already collected across different platforms was put to productive use.
“Let’s start with being accountable, holding ourselves responsible, and using what we have to get the results we need,” she said.
Her remarks highlighted the importance of coordination among institutions that collect and manage citizens’ data, particularly in efforts to improve public services and strengthen the use of existing information systems.
For Nigerians, effective integration of BVN and SIM registration data could support more coordinated services. However, any such integration would also require appropriate safeguards to protect personal information and ensure that data is accessed and used responsibly.
The NCC manager urged stakeholders to move beyond data collection and focus on accountability, collaboration and the practical use of existing records to achieve better outcomes.
Photo Caption: Mrs Yetunde Adeyemo, Senior Manager, Regulatory Services, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
