Don’t share your NIN with unauthorised persons, organisations, NIMC warns Nigerians again

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has strongly advised Nigerians against sharing their National Identification Number (NIN) with unauthorised persons, organisations or units.

The advisory, according to Dr. Kayode Adegike, Head of Corporate Communications Unit at the NIMC, became necessary in view of reports of the activities of unauthorised individuals or organisations purportedly asking for the submission of the National Identification Number (NIN) of Anambra residents in exchange for money.

This unwholesome practice, Adegike said in the release, sharply contradicts and contravenes the provisions of the NIMC Act No 23, 2007, Data Protection Act, and Cyber Crime Act.

“Upon receiving the information on the activities of the unscrupulous individuals,” Adegike continued, “NIMC, in conjunction with the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), swiftly arrested the culprits behind the illegal collection of the NIN. They are currently being interrogated and would be made to face the full wrath of the law.”

Continuing, Adegike expatiated, “The Commission, therefore, advises Anambra State residents and Nigerians to avoid submitting their NINs to unauthorized individuals, organizations, or platforms, as the Federal Government and NIMC have not authorized this. Anyone caught will be sanctioned appropriately.

“At no time should NIN holders give out their NINs for monetary compensation. This is against the laws of the Federation. Anyone caught will be dealt with appropriately.”

Meanwhile, it would be recalled that the Commission had earlier issued a statement warning Nigerians against sharing their NIN or Data with anyone or on any fictitious sites. The NIN can only be used by the holders to access government or private sector services, and it must be verified.

The Commission assured that it had taken necessary measures to curb the activities of the unscrupulous individuals.

“The general public is hereby advised to reach out to the Commission whenever they notice the indiscriminate collection of NIN via: nimccustomercare@nimc.gov.ng; 07002255646; 01923000010

“NIMC wishes to thank all security agencies for their support towards the credibility and success of the NIN enrolment project.”