In a decisive move to enhance campus security and streamline student identification, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, is set to launch a new smart identity card system for its students and staff. The initiative comes as part of the directive by His Excellency, Governor Umar Muhammad Bago, aimed at improving the University’s security architecture as preparations for full academic resumption intensify.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, received a team from Niger Media Consult, led by its Director, Malam Abdulkadir M. Sulaiman, which presented samples of the proposed smart cards during a demonstration at the University’s Management boardroom.
Professor Sulaiman described the development as a crucial step toward enhancing security and accountability within the University community.
“We have reached a point where introducing smart identity cards is no longer an option but a necessity,” he said.
“This initiative will help us clearly distinguish between our students and non-students, which is part of the criteria given by His Excellency for reopening the institution. We are committed to ensuring a safer and more organized academic environment.”
He further expressed the University’s readiness to work with relevant stakeholders to integrate the new system effectively, adding that it aligns with global best practices for campus security and identity management.
The Vice-Chancellor assured that the University Management would engage its ICT and security units to fine-tune the implementation process, ensuring that all concerns raised are addressed before the rollout of the smart ID cards.
Earlier, ICT Consultant Mr. Nasir Sadiq explained that the smart card system, known as the Identity Verification System (IVS), combines smart ID cards, a centralized portal, and mobile verification tools. The cards will feature QR codes and barcodes for quick scanning, bio-data display, and offline verification capabilities, making forgery and impersonation almost impossible.
Mr. Sadiq noted that students can request ID cards online from the comfort of their homes, reducing queues and improving efficiency. He added that the system could also be scaled to include features such as payment options and access control for examination halls.
Other members of the University who spoke during the presentation raised concerns regarding data security, the possibility of fraud, and whether the University would own the system or rely on external service providers.
Responding, the Consultant clarified that the system could be customized based on the University’s preference either as a full-service solution or with the University taking full ownership of the software and hardware after purchase.
In response, Mr. Sadiq clarified that the system could be fully customized to meet the Institution’s needs. He also assured the Management that data ownership and operational flexibility would remain with the University should it choose to purchase the system outright or continue receiving it as a service.
In his vote of thanks, the Registrar and Secretary to the Governing Council, Alhaji Idris Saleh Kusherki, commended Niger Media Consult for offering practical solutions to one of the University’s key challenges.
“We sincerely appreciate Niger Media Consult for coming on board as part of the problem-solvers,” he remarked.
“The need to go digital in our identity system cannot be overemphasized, especially in our current security climate.”
Alhaji Kusherki urged the consultants to incorporate comprehensive security features into the card and to address all the concerns raised by members of the University Management, particularly regarding data integrity, fraud prevention, and card authentication protocols.
“Whatever system is adopted must be robust, secure, and fully aligned with the University’s expectations. We must ensure it is sustainable and serve the Institution in the long run,” he added.
With this initiative, IBBU is set to join the rank of Institutions using digital identity systems to improve campus safety and administrative efficiency.
