The Federal government has come out to vow to provide a digital identification number to all internal Displaced Persons (IDPs) across Nigeria.

The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami revealed this today while inaugurating 14 member Ministerial Committee on Palliatives distribution in Abuja.

According to him, the digital ID would serve as the Federal government’s intervention via the National Identity Management Commission, NIMC.

He added that the palliatives from the parastatals came as part of his promise to intervene amid the suffering of the citizens during the coronavirus pandemic.

His words, “I earlier directed the parastatals on the 1st of May 2020 to play a role in providing some support to ameliorate the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on Nigerians. They have complied with this directive and provided some palliatives which we will distribute today.

‘‘We are all aware of the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on virtually every country across the globe, including Nigeria.

‘‘The socio economic impact of COVID-19 has led to an inability of individuals and businesses to meet their needs due to constrained resources, a negative impact on employment and a sense ‘of uncertainty, amongst others.

‘As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of our country, it is important for us to support one another and remind ourselves to work together for the good of our fellow citizens. This is even reflected in the theme for the celebration- Together at 60!

‘‘The distribution of these palliatives is in recognition of our need to support each other to ease the economic hardship that a number of people experienced as a result of COVID-19. It is also in line with Ministerial Policies that I release from time to time.

‘‘We believe that the distribution of these palliatives will improve the indices of well-being and will put a smile on the faces of many Nigerians, encouraging them as we seek to forge ahead in spite of COVID-19.”