Rural Households' Enrolment in Digital Identification and Payment Systems

Despite efforts to implement a unified digital ID system in Nigeria, rural households remain largely excluded due to factors such as location, literacy barriers, and lack of access to registration centers. The project aims to assess current enrollment levels of the National Identification Number (NIN) program, identify barriers, and explore the link between digital identification and access to essential financial services like credit and grants. Using a randomized control trial (RCT), interventions such as sensitization programs and improved registration monitoring will be tested to increase enrollment rates. The study will also evaluate the long-term impact of digital identification on poverty reduction and productivity in rural areas. Findings from this research will contribute to improved targeting and efficiency in public programs, with broader implications for development policies.