On May 25, 2007, Nigeria’s National Assembly enacted the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act, 2007 (ACT No. 23). This led to the creation of NIMC in 2010, with the mandate to establish, manage, and maintain the National Identity Database (NIDB). Under this mandate, NIMC assigns a National Identification Number (NIN) to eligible individuals, helping to streamline identity management in Nigeria.
This article covers everything you need to know about NIN, from how to register, its uses, and important guidelines to follow.
What is a National Identification Number (NIN)?
A National Identification Number (NIN) is an 11-digit number randomly generated by NIMC during the enrolment process into Nigeria’s National Identity Database. The NIN is a lifetime identifier issued upon successful registration, and it plays a key role in identity verification and fraud prevention in Nigeria.
Why is an NIN Important?
The NIN is part of Nigeria’s efforts to:
- Streamline the National Identity Database.
- Discourage identity duplication.
- Prevent identity fraud.
- Serve as a lifelong identifier for citizens and legal residents.
NIN Usage in Nigeria
NIN is required for a wide range of services, and that is why having an NIN is crucial for performing essential tasks including but not limited to:
- Applying for or renewing your International Passport.
- Registration and Linking your SIM card.
- Opening a bank account.
- Obtaining your driver’s license.
- registering for the Permanent Voters’ Card.
- Participating in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
- Tax payments and other government services.
What Happens If You Don’t Have a NIN?
If you fail to obtain your NIN or link it to your mobile number and other essential services, you may face challenges accessing basic services in Nigeria. Without a NIN, the following may occur:
- Your mobile line may be deactivated.
- You could be unable to open a new bank account or continue transactions with existing accounts.
- Applying for government documents such as passports or driver’s licenses may become impossible.
- You might face restrictions in accessing social and public services.
Important: Linking your NIN to your SIM card is crucial to ensure compliance with government regulations on identity verification. For more information, check out this section on NIN-SIM linkage.
Who Can Get an NIN?
The NIN is mandatory for all Nigerian citizens and legal residents. It can be issued from birth, though minors (0-15 years) receive only the NIN slip until they turn 16, when they can get the physical National ID card.
NIN Registration: How to Enrol
You can register for NIN in two ways:
1. Assisted Service – In-Person Enrolment
Visit any approved Enrolment Centre (ERC) with a valid ID (see list of ERC). The process includes filling out an enrolment form, providing biometrics (fingerprints, photo, and signature), and submitting supporting documents such as:
- Birth certificate.
- Declaration of age
- School ID Card.
- Nigerian Passport.
- NHIS ID card
- Attestation letter from a prominent ruler in the community
- Attestation letter from a religious or traditional leader
- Nigerian Commission for Refugees (NCFR) Refugee Certificate
- Refugee ID card
- Refugee Factsheet
After the registration is complete, you'll receive a Transaction Slip with enrollment/tracking ID and will be notified when your NIN slip is ready for collection.
2. Self-Service – Online Pre-Enrolment
Alternatively, you can begin the process online by completing the NIMC online enrolment form and then visiting an ERC to complete your registration.
For a detailed guide on how to print your NIN slip online, check out our Step-by-Step Guide.
NIN for Minors (0-15 years)
Minors can also be enrolled for NIN, but the presence of a parent or guardian is required. Additionally, the parent’s or guardian’s NIN slip and other supporting documents must be submitted.
Our Comprehensive Guide to NIN Enrolment for Minors covers everything you need to know for enrolling children under 15, both within Nigeria and abroad.
How Much Does it Cost to Get a NIN?
Enrolment for NIN is completely free within Nigeria.
NIN for Nigerians Abroad
In 2019, NIMC launched its diaspora enrolment campaign to document Nigerians living abroad. While enrolment is free in Nigeria, overseas enrolment is facilitated by licensed partners and may attract a service fee. For Nigerians abroad, NIN can be enrolled through approved partners listed on the NIMC website.
NIN licensed partners Abroad
Here is a compiled & published list of countries where Nigerians outside the country can enrol for their NIN.
Retrieving Your NIN
If you’ve lost or forgotten your NIN, there’s no need to worry, as you can easily retrieve it. Here’s how:
- USSD Method: Dial *346# on your mobile phone using the number registered with your NIN. You’ll be shown your NIN on-screen and can also choose to have it sent to your phone as an SMS (costs ₦20).
- NINCard Retrieval Service: Visit the NINCard application, select the NIN Retrieval option, complete and submit the application to retrieve your lost/forgotten NIN.
- Visit an NIMC Office: You can also visit any NIMC enrollment center with valid identification documents to retrieve your NIN.
For more details, see our blog post on how to retrieve your NIN.
Reprinting Your NIN Slip
Lost your NIN slip? Don’t worry. You can easily reprint it by providing a recent police report, a sworn court affidavit, and a ₦500 payment through Remita. Learn more in our guide on how to print physical NIN cards.
If Your NIN is Suspended
Has your NIN been suspended? Here is a step-by-step guide to reactivate suspended NIN remotely through NINCard services in Nigeria and abroad and learn reasons why NIN gets suspended.
What Happens After an NIN Holder Dies?
When NIMC receives a death certificate and verifies it, the deceased person’s NIN is permanently removed from the database.
NIN Modifications
NIMC allows modifications to fields such as name, date of birth, phone number and address, for a fee. NIMC’s online Self-Service Modifications portal offers a quick and easy way to request changes for Name, Phone Number, Date of Birth, and Address.
Self-Service Modification Fee:
| S/N | Service Description | Fees Chargeable (₦) |
| 1 | NIN Change of Name | 1,522.5 |
| 3 | NIN Change of Address | 1,522.5 |
| 4 | NIN Change of Email Address | 1,522.5 |
| 4 | NIN Change of Phone Number | 1,522.5 |
| 5 | NIN Change of Date of Birth | 16,340 |
If there are any inaccuracies in your NIN data, you can now easily update your details online. Learn how with our detailed guide: How to Update Your NIN Information (2024).
Required Documents:
For Date of Birth Modification:
- NPC Attestation Certificate (for those born before 1992).
- NPC Birth Certificate (for those born after 1992).
For Change of Name:
- Court affidavit.
- Newspaper extract.
- Marriage certificate (if applicable).
- Other government ID.
For Change of Address:
- Utility bill.
- Tenancy agreement.
- Community leader’s attestation letter.
For Phone Number Modification:
- Police report.
- Provide your phone number without “0” after the +234 country code (e.g., +234 812345…).
Access the portal via: selfservicemodification.nimc.gov.ng
Learn more about required supporting documents: nimc.gov.ng/modification-requirements
About the Improved NIN Slip
The Improved NIN Slip is a digital token designed for ease of use and improved accessibility. It is valid as a laminated sheet, either in credit card size (Premium) or slightly larger (Standard) and offers a more portable and data-privacy-conscious alternative to the older version.
Key Features:
- Compact Design: The slip is small enough to fit in wallets or purses, making it more convenient compared to the larger, older version.
- Aztec Barcode: Essential for verification, the barcode ensures secure, reliable authentication of the NIN slip.
- Valid for Life: While the payment feature has an expiry date, the identity verification remains valid indefinitely.
How to Obtain the Improved NIN Slip:
- During Enrolment: The slip is available upon NIN registration.
- Self-Service: Existing NIN holders can print the slip via the NIMC portal or the NIMC MobileID app or via NINCard Application.
How to Use the Improved NIN Slip:
To ensure its validity, the Aztec Barcode must be scanned using the NIMC MobileID app every time it’s presented. It’s illegal to photocopy, scan, or modify the slip.
Still deciding between the Plastic NIN Card and the laminated Standard NIN Slip? Our in-depth comparison can help you choose the best option: Plastic NIN Card vs Standard NIN Slip.
Verification Guidelines:
The slip can be verified via the NIMC MWS MobileID app by scanning the barcode, which provides real-time verification. Verifiers should not retain any copies of the slip to protect the owner’s information.
How to Print the Improved NIN Slip:
- Via the NIMC MobileID App:
- Open the app, enter your PIN, and select the “Print NIN Slip” option.
- Pay via Remita and download the slip as a PDF, which can then be printed and laminated.
- Via the NIMC Portal:
- Visit myportal.nimc.gov.ng or dashboard.nimc.gov.ng.
- Log in using your NIN, User ID, and OTP obtained through the NIMC MobileID app.
- Select “Print Premium Slip” or “Print Standard Slip,” make the necessary payment, and download the slip.
For a detailed guide on how to print your NIN slip online, check out our Step-by-Step Guide.
SIM-NIN Linkage: What You Should Know
SIM-NIN linkage is the process of attaching your NIN to your mobile phone number for identity verification. This process is part of Nigeria’s efforts to enhance national security, identity fraud prevention, and ensure robust economic planning.
According to the NCC, you can only register four SIM cards per network provider. You can link up to seven mobile phone numbers to one NIN, excluding SIMs that you use in your IOT or Internet of Things devices.
It is now mandatory to link your NIN to your mobile phone number(s). Failure to do so could result in restrictions on your SIM card. Here’s how to link your NIN to your phone number:
- For MTN Users: Dial *996# and follow the on-screen prompts to submit your NIN.
- For Airtel Users: Visit the Airtel NIN linking portal. Enter your Airtel phone number and follow the simple steps
- For Glo Users: Dial *109*NIN# or send your NIN via SMS to 109.
- For 9mobile Users: Dial *2008# to begin the NIN-linking process.
Alternatively, you can visit your network provider's official website or physical office for assistance in linking your NIN to your mobile number.
NIN and Data Privacy
The NIMC is committed to ensuring that all personal data collected during NIN registration is stored and processed securely. The commission follows strict data protection regulations to safeguard against unauthorized access, misuse, or data breaches. Individuals can rest assured that their biometric and demographic information is kept confidential, in compliance with global data protection standards.
In Summary
The National Identification Number (NIN) is more than just a number – it’s an essential part of living and working in Nigeria. From registering for vital services to securing government benefits, the NIN is integral to identity management in the country. As such, it’s important for every Nigerian citizen and resident to register, obtain, and use their NIN responsibly.
For more information on NIN enrolment, retrieval, or physical/plastic NIN Card, visit NINCard blog or explore the range of NINCard services.
