Abuja: The Basic Registry and Information System in Nigeria (BRISIN) has been identified as a critical tool in addressing Nigeria’s persistent issues of insecurity and economic instability. Dr Anthony Uwa, Head of BRISIN Implementation in Nigeria, made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, BRISIN is an integrated data and information infrastructure designed for real-time data governance across all sectors of the economy and government. Dr Uwa explained that in May 2007, the Federal Government signed a service agreement for the implementation of BRISIN, selecting the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for the pilot phase. Despite its numerous benefits, the system is yet to be implemented 18 years later.
Uwa emphasised that effective governance and sustainable development were impossible without a reliable and comprehensive data infrastructure. He stated, “You cannot run a government without data governance that guides decisions on national security, social systems, economic planning, revenue generation, and democratic development.” He further added that BRISIN could support sectors such as rural development, employment, diaspora integration, migration control, and social welfare.
He noted that BRISIN was conceived during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration as a fundamental infrastructure to drive lasting change and attract both local and foreign investment. He also said it would help Nigeria access international grants and funding, identify Nigerians at home and abroad, and provide reliable demographic data. Uwa added, “With BRISIN in place, Nigeria would command more respect globally, operate credibly, and manage governance effectively.”
Uwa revealed that the Italian government, through the MATEI Programme for Africa, approved 600 million dollars for BRISIN in Nigeria. However, the release is pending a letter from the FCT confirming the project’s commencement and counterpart funding, still not submitted 14 months later. He urged FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to act swiftly, stating that implementing BRISIN in the capital would modernise the city and improve governance structures.
Also speaking, Mr Lorenzo Santangelo, Director at Dermo Impex Nigeria Ltd, the BRISIN solution providers, said the system could create up to 10 million jobs in Nigeria. He explained that by integrating data systems across all ministries and agencies, governance would become more efficient and credible. Santangelo added that BRISIN would improve national planning by tracking population movements, consumer preferences, and regional needs, informing decisions on infrastructure, imports, and public services.
