The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued a strong warning to Nigerians, urging them to refrain from disclosing their National Identification Numbers (NINs) to unauthorized individuals, groups, or organizations�particularly in exchange for monetary compensation or other forms of inducement.
This warning follows disturbing reports originating from Anambra State, where it has come to light that some residents are being enticed by unscrupulous actors to provide their NINs in return for financial rewards. The Commission has unequivocally condemned this practice, describing it as both illegal and deeply concerning. It further noted that such actions constitute clear violations of multiple legal frameworks, including the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, the Nigeria Data Protection Act, and the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act.
In an official statement released on Wednesday by Dr. Kayode Adegoke, the Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC, the Commission acknowledged that it had been made aware of these illicit activities and had already taken decisive action in response. According to the statement, NIMC, working in collaboration with security agencies including the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force, has apprehended individuals involved in the illegal solicitation and collection of NINs. The suspects are currently undergoing interrogation and will be prosecuted in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
�The National Identity Management Commission has been notified of the activities of unauthorized individuals or organizations purportedly requesting National Identification Numbers from residents of Anambra State under the guise of offering financial compensation,� the statement read. �Upon receiving credible intelligence, the Commission acted swiftly in collaboration with the DSS and the Nigeria Police to apprehend those responsible. These individuals are currently being interrogated, and appropriate legal actions will be taken against them.�
NIMC emphasized that the Federal Government has not, at any time, authorized the collection of NINs by private or third-party entities for purposes of monetary distribution or similar incentives. The Commission stressed that the use of the NIN is strictly regulated and should only be done through lawful channels for accessing approved services in the public and private sectors.
�It is imperative for all citizens to understand that at no time should they release or submit their NINs in exchange for money,� the Commission warned. �Doing so not only violates national laws but also puts them at risk of identity theft, financial fraud, and other forms of cybercrime.�
Furthermore, the Commission reiterated its previous advisories, which caution Nigerians against sharing their NINs or any form of personal data with unverified individuals, digital platforms, or organizations. NIMC warned that once personal data is exposed to bad actors, it can be misused for malicious activities including impersonation, unauthorized access to services, and digital fraud.
The NIN, the Commission added, is a vital and sensitive identifier that should only be used by its rightful owner to access legitimate government or private sector services where verification is mandated and securely carried out.
To ensure the integrity of the national identity ecosystem and the safety of citizens� data, NIMC called on the public to remain vigilant and proactive. It urged anyone who encounters or suspects unauthorized activities involving NIN collection to immediately report such incidents through the Commission�s official communication channels for prompt investigation and appropriate action.
