The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has reacted to news pertaining to an alleged breach of citizens’ data by a private organization, XpressVerify.
In a statement on Sunday, 17th March 2024, signed by Kayode Adegoke, head, Corporate Communications at the NIMC, he said that the Commission offers National Identification Number (NIN) verification and other services through licensed partners.
“However, XpressVerify is not one of the Commission’s licensed partners.
“We express our gratitude to our media partners and the whistleblowers for bringing this to our attention and wish to assure Nigerians and legal residents that there is no data breach of any sort and the Citizens’ data is safe and secure in the Nigeria’s National identity database”.
He however said that Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, director general and chief executive officer of NIMC, has promptly ordered a comprehensive investigation into the matter to find out if any of the Commission’s Tokenisation verification agents has in any way breach the licensing agreement either directly or through any of their sub-licensees.
“Engr Coker-Odusote affirms the commitment of NIMC to data protection and privacy, and assures that no stone will be left unturned in ensuring the safety and security of the data of all enrollees. ‘Top-level security is in place to protect the NIN and other personal data of every citizen and legal resident, she said.
“NIMC reaffirms its unwavering dedication to safeguarding, securing, and responsibly managing the data entrusted to us.
“The Commission understands the critical importance of maintaining public trust and confidence in our operations, and we will continue to uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability”, the statement reads.
Meanwhile, Techeconomy reported on Sunday that Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the national commissioner, National Data Protection Commissioner (NDPC), has ordered a full scale investigation of the matter.
