The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) is issuing a stern warning to Nigerians at home and abroad as it cracks down on unauthorised data collectors exploiting citizens’ National Identification Numbers (NINs) for illicit gains.
The alarm is sounding louder after the Commission uncovers a disturbing trend in Anambra State, where individuals and platforms are reportedly soliciting NINs from unsuspecting residents in exchange for cash, a practice the federal identity management agency deems not only illegal but dangerously deceptive.
“The National Identity Management Commission has been notified of the activities of unauthorised individuals or organisations purportedly asking for the submission of the National Identification Number (NIN) of Anambra residents in exchange for money,” NIMC says in an official statement seen by Technology Times.
The Commission is reiterating its position that NINs—a key digital identity instrument—must be kept confidential and used solely for legitimate purposes. “At no time should NIN holders give out their NINs for monetary compensation. This is against the laws of the Federation. Anyone caught will be dealt with appropriately,” NIMC says.
NIMC: NIN must be kept confidential
The Commission says it is teaming up with the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to apprehend those behind the illicit data scheme. “They are currently being interrogated and would be made to face the full wrath of the law,” NIMC is confirming.
The Commission is reiterating its position that NINs—a key digital identity instrument—must be kept confidential and used solely for legitimate purposes. “At no time should NIN holders give out their NINs for monetary compensation. This is against the laws of the Federation. Anyone caught will be dealt with appropriately,” NIMC says.
With Nigeria’s digital economy expanding rapidly and data becoming currency in the modern age, the Commission is underscoring the need for heightened public vigilance. The move reflects growing concerns around data privacy, digital fraud, and identity theft amid Nigeria’s increasing online footprint.
“NIN can only be used by the holders to access government or private sector services, and it must be verified,” NIMC explains, while encouraging citizens to protect their identities and report suspicious requests.
The unauthorised collection of identity data, according to the Commission, contravenes the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, Nigeria Data Protection Act, and the Cybercrime Act, all of which impose strict penalties for violations.
As the NIMC intensifies efforts to clamp down on digital fraud and restore confidence in Nigeria’s national ID system, citizens are being advised to verify any platform requesting personal information and to report dubious activities through the Commission’s official contact channels.
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