The Federal Ministry of Education has launched a groundbreaking nationwide Learner Identification Number (LIN), marking a major step toward digitising and transforming Nigeria’s education system.
The initiative introduces a permanent, traceable academic identity for every student, designed to improve data management, support learning continuity, and enable targeted interventions across all levels of education.
Announcing the development, Minister of Education Maruf Tunji Alausa described the LIN as a “transformational milestone” aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with a strong emphasis on human capital development and technology-driven reforms.
“This initiative marks a turning point in our education system. By assigning every learner a unique number, we are building a structure that supports each child’s journey from classroom to career, while ensuring that no one is left behind,” the minister stated.
In its first phase, the programme has already captured over 1.9 million candidates sitting for the 2026 examinations conducted by the West African Examinations Council and the National Examinations Council, each issued a unique learner number.
The LIN system assigns every student a permanent identity embedded with key data such as state, local government area, school, and individual student code. This ensures seamless tracking of academic records, even when learners transfer between schools or relocate.
Built on the Digitised National Education Management Information System (DNEMIS), the platform also leverages a national database where every school is assigned a unique identification number strengthening the integrity of records and examination processes.
Officials say the system will help curb impersonation, enhance verification procedures, and restore confidence in public examinations. Beyond this, it will play a crucial role in identifying out-of-school children, tracking student progression, detecting dropouts, and addressing learning gaps through timely interventions.
The fully digital and accessible platform is expected to expand in its next phase to cover all learners in both public and private schools nationwide, supported by national data systems and the Annual School Census.
The Ministry has called on key stakeholders including schools, examination bodies, parents, and students to embrace the initiative, describing it as a critical tool in building a transparent, inclusive, and accountable education system.
With the rollout of the LIN, the Federal Government signals a bold commitment to leveraging technology and data to secure the future of education in Nigeria.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
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