NIMC Warns Nigerians Against Sharing NIN with Unauthorized Persons
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NIMC Warns Nigerians Against Sharing NIN with Unauthorized Persons
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued a stern warning to Nigerians, particularly residents of Anambra State, against sharing their National Identification Number (NIN) with unauthorized individuals or organizations.
This warning comes on the heels of disturbing reports from Anambra State, where some unscrupulous persons were reportedly collecting NINs from unsuspecting residents in exchange for money.
According to Dr. Kayode Adegoke, Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC, the Commission was alerted to the activities of these illegal agents and swiftly collaborated with the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to apprehend the culprits.
Adegoke stated that the offenders are currently undergoing interrogation, assuring the public that they will face the full weight of the law.
“This illegal collection of NINs clearly violates several national laws, including the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, the Nigeria Data Protection Act, and the Cybercrime Act,” Dr. Adegoke said.
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He emphasized that the Federal Government has not authorized any individual, group, or platform to collect NINs for financial or material compensation.
NIMC reiterated that any resident caught submitting their NIN for such purposes will be sanctioned accordingly.
“At no point should any NIN holder exchange their identification number for money. It is not only illegal but also exposes the individual to identity theft and other forms of cybercrime,” Dr. Adegoke warned.
This warning echoes earlier advisories from the Commission urging citizens to safeguard their personal data and avoid sharing their NINs on unverified websites or with unauthorized parties.
NIMC clarified that the NIN is strictly for accessing legitimate government and private sector services, and its use must always be verified.
INCNews247 reports that to curb the growing threat of data misuse, NIMC has put robust security measures in place and continues to work closely with national security agencies.
Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activities involving indiscriminate NIN collection by contacting NIMC through official channels: nimccustomercare@nimc.gov.ng, 0700-2255-646, or 01-923-000010.
NIMC expressed its appreciation to the security agencies for their unwavering support in protecting the integrity of the NIN enrollment and verification process.
The Commission also called on the public to remain vigilant and responsible in handling their digital identity.
