OMO Offa Nimi launches a community-wide digital identity card scheme in Offa, Kwara State, aimed at providing a secure digital identity system, generating accurate population data, and strengthening economic and social development within the town.
The initiative, according to Mediaplusng.com, is unveiled during the official opening of the organisation’s secretariat in Offa, an event that attracts traditional rulers, government officials, professionals, and community leaders. Speakers at the launch commend the project, describing it as a forward-looking step that will help establish reliable census data and improve planning for community growth.
The organisers explain that Offa indigenes are widely known for their self-reliance and commitment to development without waiting for government intervention. Through this digital platform, OMO Offa Nimi seeks to formally document indigenes and residents, creating a credible database that reflects the true population and supports informed decision-making.
Speaking at the event, the Director-General of the National Population Commission (NPC), Dr. Ojogun Tellson-Osifo, notes via Mediaplusng.com that the absence of accurate data often leads to poor planning and wrong policy decisions. He stresses that community-driven data initiatives such as this complement national efforts and can improve governance outcomes at the grassroots level.
The Chairman of OMO Offa Nimi, Dr. Kola Balogun, explains that the digital identity card system is designed to capture essential demographic information while ensuring data security and ease of access. He says the platform will support economic planning, social interventions, and investment decisions that directly benefit Offa residents.
Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Dr. Sarah Slade, describes the initiative as a catalyst for inclusive growth. She says accurate data will help attract development projects, financial services, and private-sector investments to the town. Similarly, the President of the Offa Descendants Union, Muideen Salako, urges the organisers to extend registration to non-indigenes residing in Offa to ensure a comprehensive and realistic population figure.
The traditional ruler of Offa, the Olofa of Offa, Muftahu Gbadamosi, expresses confidence that the digital enrolment exercise will reveal the true population of the community. He notes that credible data remains a critical foundation for development planning, security coordination, and resource allocation at both local and state levels.
Also speaking, Dr. Waheed Olagunju, representing the Asiwaju of Offa, says the initiative reflects global best practices in community development and digital governance. He adds that the success of the scheme positions Offa as a model that other local governments across Nigeria can emulate.
Organisers say the issuance of digital identity cards to both indigenes and non-indigenes, once completed, will improve access to opportunities, enhance economic wellbeing, and strengthen community cohesion. They express optimism that the platform will support long-term development goals and reinforce Offa’s reputation as a progressive and self-driven community.
