FAQs

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What is NIMC (National Identity Management Commission)?

The NIMC (pronounced as “Neem-See”) is the primary legal institution in Nigeria mandated by law to institutionalize identity management system and regulate the identity sector. (NIMC Act 2007; Sections 1, 2, 5 and 6).

What is NIMC setup to do (Mandate)?

• To operate and manage the National Identity Management System (NIMS).
• Carry out enrolment of citizens and legal residents and issue a unique National Identification Number (NIN).
• After enrolment, issue a National e-ID Card which is also called a Smart General Multi-Purpose Card (GMPC).
• Manage the National Identity Database (NIDB).
• Harmonize and integrate all databases in the country into one centralized identity (The NIMC database).
• Verification and authentication of citizens’ identity via the platform to be provided by NIMC.

What is National Identity Management System (NIMS) ?

National Identity Management System (NIMS) is the infrastructure that is responsible for the management of the NIMC mandate.

What are the benefits of the NIMS?

• Uniquely Identifying Individuals
• It provides a platform where no one is excluded socially or financially
• Transforms the delivery of social welfare programs, especially those cut off from such benefits.
• It enables people to claim their entitlement
• It helps to eliminate duplicate identity
• It helps to eliminate fraud
• Reduces cost of resources as infrastructures are shared

What is the National Identification Number (NIN)?

The National Identification Number-NIN (pronounced as “Neen”) is a unique number issued to a successful enrolled individual This number is randomly generated and it is issued for life.

Who should register and get a NIN?

All citizens and legal residents are eligible to enroll for their National Identification Number (NIN).

What is the NIN used for?

The NIN is used to tie all records about an individual into the National Identity Database and is also used as a valid means of establishing or verifying individual identity.

How can I get my NIN?

Upon successful enrolment, a Transaction Slip is issued. The applicant is informed when to come for collection of his/her NIN. A second slip called the National Identification Number (NIN) Slip is issued when the applicant returns to collect his/her NIN. The NIN Slip has your 11 Digit Number at the top left corner, second row. This is the slip that contains the NIN and is valid for all legitimate transactions in Nigeria.

How long does it take for the NIN to be ready?

It usually takes between 1-5 working days for your NIN to be ready after registration.

Can I display my NIN along with my contact details on cards or social media?

No. The NIN is your unique identification number to be protected like your ATM/Debit/Credit card number or PIN. It is neither a receipt number nor a certificate number.

Do I need to re-enrol again if I forget my NIN?

No. You do not need to enrol again. There are two steps to take:
a. Go to the nearest ERC and supply your phone number, DOB or fingerprints and your NIN will be given to you.
b. NIN can be retrieved using a USSD code *346# (Available on all Networks and cost N20). There are two options:
i. Retrieval, with the phone number given/supplied at initial enrolment.
ii. Search, with any phone number while providing your key information.

I lost my NIN Slip, how can I obtain another one?

Pay a token of N500 through REMITA at any bank nearest to you; provide your Remita Teller to any NIMC Enrolment Centre (ERC) near you and request for a NIN slip print.

What is the cost of obtaining a National e-ID Card?

The National e-ID Card is free at first issuance for now. However replacement or renewal will attract a fee.

Why is the National e-ID card given to individuals from 16 years and above?

The NIN is issued to every individual who have successfully enrolled but the card is given to sixteen years and above in accordance with the NIMC Act which stipulates that the card be given to sixteen years and above.

I have lost my National e-ID card, what do I do?

Kindly report this to the nearest NIMC office.

I am no longer in the location where I registered, can I transfer my National e-ID card to my current location?

Please go to the nearest ERC and fill a card transfer form. This service is free! For now.

If my National e-ID card is damaged or missing can I get a replacement?

Kindly report this to the nearest NIMC office.

Where are the Centres for registration?

 There are Registration Centres in all the 36 state capitals including the FCT. There are also designated Enrolment Centres in various locations within Abuja. There will also be centres in all the 774 Local Government offices nationwide. Plan have been made to also establish special enrolment centres. Click Here To Locate An Enrolment Centre