Nigerian govt to roll out LG proof of address system to enhance security, development

The Federal Government has announced plans to implement the Local Government Proof of Address (POA) system across Nigeria’s 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) to bolster national security, improve economic planning, and enhance national identity management.

The initiative was revealed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, during a stakeholder meeting for the Activation and Implementation of the Local Government Proof of Address System.

Representing the SGF, the Permanent Secretary of the General Services Office in the OSGF, Dr. Nnamdi Maurice Mbaeri, highlighted the critical importance of the program.

“The POA will provide Nigerians with a verifiable and secure address, which would form an integral part of all administrative processes in both the public and private sectors,” Akume stated.

According to Senator Akume, the nationwide implementation of the POA system will significantly aid law enforcement agencies by creating a robust database of verifiable addresses. This database will enhance their ability to track and address criminal activities and other social vices.

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He further emphasized that the system would facilitate resource allocation, policy implementation, and grassroots development. “This initiative will reduce risks in areas like lending, delivery services, and commerce, while also promoting economic and social development across the country,” he said.

Akume urged Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to integrate the POA certificate into their processes to ensure reliable and verifiable addresses. “The Proof of Address Initiative is an embodiment of hope, a symbol of progress, and a testament to the dedication of this administration to creating a better Nigeria for all,” he added.

Bello Lawal, National President of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), represented by his Special Assistant and former Karu LGA Chairman, Hon. Akala Samuel, affirmed ALGON’s support for the initiative.

Lawal explained that the POA would provide a foundational tool for improved governance, resource planning, and service delivery. “This system will equip agencies like the Nigerian Police, Department of State Security Services, and other law enforcement agencies with accurate data for grassroots intelligence, contributing to greater security and economic prosperity,” he stated.

The German Ambassador to Nigeria, Annett Gunther, represented by Police Liaison Officer Dominik Mueller, expressed confidence in Nigeria’s readiness to implement the initiative. Mueller pointed to Lagos State’s Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) as an example of how robust databases can be leveraged for national security and development.

He recommended that the Federal Government ensure seamless integration of the POA system to support critical institutions such as the military, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), National Population Commission (NPC), and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The stakeholder meeting brought together representatives from key MDAs, ALGON, and the German Embassy, signaling a collective commitment to making the POA system a reality.

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