The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) says several suspects have been arrested and illegal enrolment equipment seized during a crackdown on unauthorised National Identification Number (NIN) registration and data modification centres in Gwagwalada and other parts of Abuja.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement issued on Monday, Kayode Adegoke, NIMC’s head of corporate communications, said the enforcement operation was carried out by the commission’s Inspectorate Compliance and Enforcement Unit (ICEU).
He said the exercise was part of efforts to curb illegal enrolment activities, unauthorised modification of personal information and extortion by individuals operating outside approved NIMC channels.
NIMC warned Nigerians against patronising unauthorised operators, noting that bypassing official registration procedures was responsible for many of the challenges experienced by NIN holders.
“NIMC notes that many of the problems people face with their National Identification Number (NIN) stem from bypassing official enrolment procedures,” the statement read.
The commission explained that NIN registration could only be conducted at its approved enrolment centres, while personal data modifications could be completed through its self-service platform.
“NIN enrolment can only be done at any of the Commission’s approved Centres, while modification of data can be done via self-service.nimc.gov.ng.
“NIN holders should download the NINAuth application from the iOS App Store and the Android Play Store for the protection of their NIN, for printing of the NIN slip, and other security benefits,” the statement added.
Adegoke also quoted Abisoye Coker-Odusote, NIMC director-general, as reaffirming the commission’s zero tolerance for extortion and unethical practices.
Coker-Odusote said the commission remained committed to providing seamless NIN enrolment services for Nigerians and legal residents.
She urged applicants and existing NIN holders to rely exclusively on NIMC-approved channels for registration and other identity management services.
“For accurate information, visit www.nimc.gov.ng or follow NIMC’s verified social media handles. The toll-free line is 0800 0616 462,” she added.
