The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has intensified its nationwide crackdown on illegal National Identification Number (NIN) registration, unauthorized data tampering, and extortion following a successful enforcement raid in Gwagwalada, Abuja, and surrounding locations.
The operation, executed by NIMC’s Inspectorate Compliance and Enforcement Unit (ICEU), led to the arrest of several illegal operators and the confiscation of unapproved enrolment equipment.
Commission officials noted that the crackdown is critical to maintaining the integrity, security, and global credibility of Nigeria’s National Identity Management System.
Root Cause of NIN Data Errors
According to a statement issued by NIMC’s Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Kayode Adegoke, a significant portion of registration errors, data corruption, and administrative delays reported by citizens stem from bypassing authorized channels.
The Commission cautioned members of the public against using touts or unverified third-party centers, emphasizing that:
Fresh NIN Enrolments: Must be conducted strictly at NIMC-approved physical centers.
Data Modifications: Can be executed independently via the official self-service portal at selfservicemodification.nimc.gov.ng.
Digital Protection & Slips: NIN holders should download the official NINAuth application on iOS or Android Play Store to secure their identity records and print verified NIN slips safely.
Zero Tolerance for Extortion
Reaffirming the agency’s position, NIMC Director-General and CEO, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, restated that the Commission maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against extortion and unethical conduct by any internal or external actors.
She assured Nigerians and legal residents that the Commission remains dedicated to offering a seamless, transparent, and hitch-free enrolment process.
”NIMC urges all applicants and NIN holders to use only official, approved channels for identity services to avoid compromising their personal data,” the Commission stated.
For verification, inquiries, or reporting extortion, citizens can visit the official website at www.nimc.gov.ng or contact NIMC’s toll-free helpline at 0800 0616 462.
