Nigerian identity management and e-payment infrastructure Smartgov has been hailed by Nigeria’s Cross River State.

Governor Liyel Imoke said the system, initiated in 2011, had helped the state improve the life of its citizens after it enabled the creation of a state-wide identity management system for residents and corporate entities.

He said Smartgov had facilitated the issuance of biometric-based identity cards, providing cardholders with access to healthcare, pension, transportation, educational bursaries, social amenities and social benefits.

The state government further noted that the programme had also facilitated the automation of key ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) revenue sources and services, as well as the reduction of government spending.

Speaking at a state budget presentation, Imoke said considering the impact of the Smartgov project in the state, his government was considering expanding the platform to raise more revenue for the state.

“The project has revolutionised that state beyond government's earlier expectations,” said Imoke.

Managing director of the Smartgov collaboration in the Cross River State Government, Jonah Adams, said the development of the platform by Interswitch, and its deployment, reflected the state’s determination to improve governance, accountability and access to social services for citizens.

“We are extremely proud of our achievements to date in Cross River State and the renewed commitment from CRSG to extend the use of the Smartgov identity management and e-payment infrastructure to eliminate wastage and grow revenues. It is our mission to help state governments to offer their citizens a more efficient service and better value for money,” Adams said.

Group managing director and chief executive officer, Interswitch Transnational, Mitchell Elegbe, expressed his excitement at the success of the project in the state.

Cross River is among the few Nigerian states currently using the platform in the country.

“The success of Smartgov in Cross River state has given us even greater determination to roll out our solution across all state governments in Nigeria. By doing so we can give Nigerians everywhere a more effective and efficient service from government that utilises the latest world-class e-payment and identity management technologies,” said Elegbe