Oyo Launches Proof of Address Scheme March 1 as EFCC Backs Nationwide Rollout

The Proof of Address (PoA) system will officially take effect in Oyo State on March 1, 2026, as the state government moves to implement a standardized address verification framework across all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

The directive, contained in Circular Reference No. AD/36/VOL.IV/72 dated February 18, 2026, was signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Musibau Adetunji Babatunde. It mandates all MDAs to adopt the PoA system for official transactions requiring address verification and to appoint a desk officer, not below Grade Level 09 or 10, to coordinate implementation.

Officials say the rollout is a key component of the state’s public sector reform and digital governance agenda. At a sensitisation programme held at the Western Hall of the Secretariat in Ibadan, government representatives noted that a reliable address database would strengthen planning, taxation, emergency response and security.

National momentum for the initiative has also grown following the endorsement of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which has pledged full cooperation in deploying the system across the country.

The commission is partnering with the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria to drive implementation across all 774 local government areas.

The collaboration was formalised during a meeting at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, where an ALGON delegation led by Segun Obayendo met with the commission. Also present was Abdulmajeed Abubakar, representing the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

Speaking during the visit, EFCC Secretary Muhammed Hammajoda said the Proof of Address system would significantly strengthen investigations and asset tracing.

He noted that verifiable address data is critical in establishing ownership and resolving disputes in court, particularly in cases involving tenants, landlords and property claims.

Under the framework, residents are expected to link their address records with their National Identification Number (NIN), integrating the database into Nigeria’s broader identity management infrastructure. Authorities say the linkage will improve traceability, reduce identity-related fraud and enhance coordination among regulatory and security agencies.

The National Commission for Colleges of Education has also adopted the PoA framework to strengthen documentation for students and staff across colleges of education nationwide.

Stakeholders say the March 1 rollout in Oyo represents a significant step toward closing long-standing gaps in Nigeria’s address verification system, though they note that public awareness, inter-agency coordination and compliance will determine the initiative’s success.