The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued a stern warning to Nigerians, urging them not to sell or share their National Identification Numbers (NIN) with unauthorized individuals or organizations in exchange for money.
This alert follows reports of illegal activities in Anambra State, where residents have been targeted by fraudulent schemes involving the sale of NINs. Such actions are unlawful and punishable under the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, the Data Protection Act, and the Cybercrime Act.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Dr. Kayode Adegoke, Head of the NIMC Corporate Communications Unit, confirmed that security agencies have already apprehended those involved in the illegal collection of NINs in the area. He assured that the suspects are being thoroughly investigated and will face legal consequences.
The NIMC made it clear that neither the Commission nor the Federal Government has authorized any third party to collect NINs for financial gain. Sharing one’s NIN for money is a criminal offense, and violators will be prosecuted.
The Commission also urged Nigerians to be vigilant and refrain from sharing their NIN or personal details with unverified individuals or platforms, as doing so could lead to identity theft or cybercrime.
The NIN is intended solely for the holder’s use in accessing government or private sector services, and it must be properly safeguarded.
Finally, NIMC encouraged the public to report any suspicious or unauthorized NIN collection activities through its official channels.
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