21st August, 2014
The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) said its new Security Verified Identity Card (S-ViD) was designed to reduce financial crime and identify theft in the country.
Alhaji Najeem Yasin, NURTW National President made this known on Thursday in Abuja at the public introduction and launching of the card.
NAN reports that the multifunctional card, which has the holder’s database, will serve as an identity card, Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card and insurance card for the members of the union.
The card is also connected to their cell phones for mobile money transaction for them to work on all Point of Sale (POS), internet and for all global financial transactions.
Yasin added that the card, which was designed with world class database, would serve as the union’s corporate identity card with pictures of the holder and assist security agencies in areas of investigation and clearance.
“Despite the fact that the union is known as one of the major employers of labour and contributors to the country’s economy, it is difficult to ascertain its genuine members or actual membership strength.
“Nigeria has been witnessing crises such as insurgency, ritual killings and kidnapping.
“During this period, lack of proper identification has put many people in problem with the police and other security agencies.
“Many people claimed to belong to organisations only to discover during interrogation that they do not belong to where they claimed,” he said.
He said that it had affected many organizations; including the union which made it to key into the new identity card.
He said 11 Insurance Companies, led by Royal Exchange Assurance Pl, formed a consortium on the project to provide Group Personal Accident Insurance Cover to the card holder.
He disclosed that the insurance, through the card, covered N1million against accidental death and N850, 000 against permanent disability.
“The privacy of our members are maintained and protected by the scheme’s official Banks which are UBA Plc, Skye Bank Plc and Keystone Bank Ltd.
“The database shall be accessible and available online, at the union’s offices nationwide”.
He said the union partnered with Capital 3 Ltd and Globacom Mobile Network which provided Closer User Group (CUG) services for union members, thus adding value to the card.
Mr Richard Borokinni, Managing Director, Royal exchange Assurance, said claims arising from the scheme would be paid promptly once accidents involving NURTW members were properly documented and referred to the insurance company.