The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has advised Nigerians against sharing their National Identification Numbers (NIN) with unauthorized individuals or groups in exchange for payment.
This warning followed reports indicating that some residents in Anambra State were being lured into providing their NINs for money, a practice the Commission deemed illegal and subject to penalties under the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, the Data Protection Act, and the Cybercrime Act.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by Dr. Kayode Adegoke, the Head of Corporate Communications of the Commission, the NIMC confirmed that this unlawful activity had been reported and arrests had been made in partnership with security agencies.
“The National Identity Management Commission has received notifications about unauthorized individuals or groups reportedly soliciting the submission of the National Identification Number from residents of Anambra in exchange for cash,” the statement mentioned.
Dr. Kayode Adegoke emphasized that this illegal activity was brought to their notice and that arrests were made with assistance from the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force. The offenders are currently undergoing interrogation and will face legal consequences.
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The Commission pointed out that neither it nor the Federal Government has authorized the collection or use of NINs by any third parties for profit, stating that anyone involved in such activities would face appropriate penalties.
“NIN holders should never exchange their NINs for monetary rewards. This action is against the laws of the Federation. Anyone caught will be handled accordingly,” it warned.
NIMC also reiterated its prior advice urging Nigerians to avoid sharing their NINs or personal information with unverified individuals or platforms, warning that such behavior could lead to identity theft and other cybercrimes.
“The NIN is intended for use by holders to access services from both the government and the private sector, and it must be verified,” the statement concluded.
The Commission additionally encouraged the public to report any suspicious or unauthorized attempts to collect NINs through its official channels.
