Abstract
Digital identity systems are critical infrastructures for modern governance, particularly in emerging economies like Nigeria. This study investigates the relationship between citizen trust, perceived value, and digital identity adoption in the context of Nigeria's National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, quantitative data (n=400) and qualitative insights (n=25) were triangulated. Results from Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) reveal that citizen trust significantly influences adoption behavior (β = 0.65, p < 0.01), with perceived value mediating 69.2% of the relationship. Trust dimensions competence (β = 0.82), integrity (β = 0.74), and benevolence (β = 0.68) demonstrated varying impacts. Utilitarian value was the dominant perception. The study extends the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) by incorporating institutional trust and proposes a trust value adoption framework applicable to low-trust environments. Practical strategies are offered for NIMC and digital identity authorities across sub-Saharan Africa