Dr. Kayode Adegoke, head, Corporate Communications at NIMC, in a statement available to Techeconomy, the initiative is part of a strategic push to decentralize the capture of biometric data and ensure that every Nigerian, especially those in rural and underserved areas, is integrated into the national identity database.

The Commission maintains that the National Identification Number (NIN) remains the foundational requirement for accessing critical government services, from social intervention programs to financial inclusion.

A Decentralized Push for Total Coverage

“Unlike previous centralized models, the current drive focuses on bringing registration points closer to the citizens”, Dr. Adegoke said.

By leveraging ward-level infrastructure, NIMC aims to eliminate the logistical barriers that have historically slowed down enrolment in remote regions.

To facilitate a seamless experience, the Commission has advised the public to adhere to the following guidelines:

• Locate Centres: Visit the to find the designated enrolment point within your specific ward.
• Accuracy is Key: Ensure all information provided during registration is accurate to avoid future data modification bottlenecks.
• Official Channels: Follow only verified NIMC communication channels to avoid misinformation and falling victim to unauthorized registration agents.

The Digital Identity Ecosystem

NIMC is not just focusing on registration but also on the utility of the identity. The Commission highlighted several digital tools designed to give Nigerians more control over their data:

• Pre-Enrolment: Speed up the process by visiting .
• Self-Service Modification: Update your records without visiting a physical office via .
• Mobile Authentication: Download the NINAUTH app on the iOS App Store or Google Play Store for secure digital identity verification.

Techeconomy’s take is that for Nigeria to achieve a fully functional digital economy, a verified identity database is non-negotiable.

The ward-level drive is a significant move toward inclusive identity coverage. As government services become increasingly digitized, the NIN acts as the digital handshake between the state and the citizen.

For the private sector, particularly fintechs and telcos, this drive expands the pool of KYC-compliant consumers, potentially boosting the country’s GDP through increased economic participation.

NIMC Contact Center: 0800-CALL-NIMC (0800 061 6462)

It sounded harmless, even helpful, especially in these tough economic times. But behind that offer lies a much darker reality.

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) is deeply concerned about a disturbing trend recently highlighted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC): a growing number of Nigerians, especially the youth, are being enticed into selling their personal data for as little as ₦1,500 to ₦2,000.

These details are then resold to certain fintech platforms for as much as ₦5,000, fueling an underground economy that puts every NIN holder at risk.

“This is not just a case of minor fraud, it’s a threat to national security and personal safety,” said Dr. Kayode Adegoke, head of Corporate Communications at NIMC. “When you hand over your data to unknown agents, you are essentially handing over control of your identity.”

The Commission wishes to make one thing unequivocally clear: NIMC will not be held liable for any misuse of personal data shared willingly by individuals or through third parties for money or inducement.

The public has been repeatedly warned not to disclose their NIN or related information to anyone not officially authorised.

Moreover, NIMC reminds all service providers that every NIN presented for services must be properly verified using the appropriate channels before access is granted.

To protect yourself and your identity, Nigerians are strongly encouraged to download the NINAuth App, available on both Apple iOS and Google Play Store.

This tool empowers you to manage, secure, and control access to your personal NIN data, anytime, anywhere.

The story of your identity should be written by you, not sold for a quick payout.