Stop sharing your NIN for money, NIMC cautions Nigerians 

The advice follows the arrest of individuals involved in the unauthorised collection of NIN from residents of Anambra State in exchange for money.

According to a statement signed by the Commission’s Head of Corporate Communications Unit, Kayode Adegoke, the operation was carried out in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

While noting that the arrested suspects are currently under interrogation and will be prosecuted in accordance with applicable laws, NIMC stated that the actions of these individuals and organisations violate several laws, including the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007; Nigeria Data Protection Act, and Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act.

The Commission emphasized that no one is permitted to collect, buy, or sell NINs, and NIN holders must never share their identification for financial gain.

“At no time should NIN holders give out their NINs for monetary compensation. This is against the laws of the Federation,” the Commission warned.

NIMC reiterated that only authorised government and private sector platforms are permitted to collect and verify NINs, typically for the purpose of delivering public services or regulatory compliance.

“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,” the statement read in part.

With the growing integration of the NIN into banking, SIM registration, voter data, and tax identification, any compromise of a person’s NIN could lead to serious identity theft and financial fraud risks.