
Nigerians have reacted to the registration of world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua; for the National Identity Number by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
Indeed, the majority have taken the NIMC to task; accusing the commission of undue delays in the issuance of the identity cards to millions of Nigerians who have registered. Further, some angry Nigerians have also alleged that Anthony Joshua may get preferential with the swift issuance of his ID.
Meanwhile, the comments which began to circulate on social media have subsequently gone viral; thereby become one of the major talking points on micro-blogging site, Twitter.
Anthony Joshua currently holds the WBA, IBF, WBO, and IBO titles since December 2019.
Trouble began when the NIMC tweeted a picture of the skilled pugilist enrolling for the NIN at the Commission’s office.
‘‘Anthony Joshua @anthonyfjoshua enrolls for the National Identification Number and issued his NIN slip,’’ it tweeted from its official handle.
Anthony Joshua @anthonyfjoshua enrolls for the National Identification Number and issued his NIN slip. pic.twitter.com/GS1osa6Rea
— NIMC (@nimc_ng) February 18, 2020
Equally important, the pictures showed Anthony Joshua; a two-time unified heavyweight champion, being presented with his NIN slip immediately after the enrolment.
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Frustrated Nigerians tackle NIMC, allege Anthony Joshua will get preferential treatment
Subsequently, the post on Twitter began to generate attention as many Nigerians began to have their say. Indeed, for the overwhelming majority of those who reacted; there were harsh words and knocks for the NIMC. As a matter of fact, social media users referenced their personal experiences and difficulties encountered in obtaining the ID cards; in some cases, years after enrolment.
Indeed, 1st News can report that there have been regular outbursts of dissatisfaction by Nigerians with the slow pace of disbursement of the National Identity Cards by the NIMC. In fact, many have had to wait several years after enrolment to get their hands on the cards.
Meanwhile, 1st News has put together some of the views expressed by Nigerians on the matter.
On the flip side, Anthony Joshua would get his National ID tomorrow. He's not a common man like you and me. This system is not meant for the common man, it's meant for the rich and connected. Stop stressing it. Get rich or japa.
— Wale Adetona (@iSlimfit) February 19, 2020
Anthony Joshua has gotten the National ID he enrolled for the same day. I registered since 2015, maybe the original will be out by the time I am done having children.
Very insane country.
— BABYBOSS (@tejumania) February 19, 2020
Lucky guy. He didn't have to wait 5 years for a piece of paper.
— Kenneth (@Askforken) February 18, 2020
I applied for my national ID since 2015. I hope Anthony Joshua's will not be ready before mine. He just applied now
— Obinna Nwosu (@obi_Nwosu) February 19, 2020
Anthony Joshua got his slip same day! But you people will tell me to come back in 2 weeks. You're all wicked
— Uncle Lanfe (@OAdelanfe) February 18, 2020
Anthony Joshua applied for his National ID card today and believe me when I say it’ll be handed to him before the end of today or tomorrow because he’s not like “You and I”.
In this Nigeria just have money, if not you will suffer.
— AJ | Adonai (@mrmanhere_) February 19, 2020
I registered for my National ID since 2014, I was even asked to pay a token if I want to get the card immediately…my brother till today nothing show o ??
Or do I still have to pay?
— Professional beggar (@Sheddi_younG) February 19, 2020
Do you mean the NIN slip could be gotten that same day. Unbelievable,@anthonyfjoshua should know that #Nigerians wait for days to get that slip, and years to get the Card.
NB:@nimc_ng can confirm the information above, if they refuse or deny. #Nigerians will tell you the truth.
— AA Abdullah (@TheShehus) February 19, 2020