NIMC Warns: Don’t Sell Your NIN! Anambra Residents Urged to Shun Fraudsters

*Crackdown on Illegal NIN Collectors Leads to Arrests

By Queen Kunde

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has once again cautioned Nigerians—especially residents of Anambra State—against handing over their National Identification Numbers (NIN) to unauthorized individuals or organizations, no matter the promise of payment.

This stern warning follows the arrest of fraudsters who were illegally collecting NINs from unsuspecting residents in exchange for money. According to NIMC, such activities are not only illegal but violate several national laws, including the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, the Data Protection Act, and the Cybercrime Act.

Working closely with the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the Commission confirmed that the perpetrators have been apprehended and are currently undergoing interrogation. They are expected to face the full force of the law.

The Federal Government and NIMC have not authorized any individual or group to collect NINs on its behalf especially not for financial gain,” said Dr. Kayode Adegoke, Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC.

 “NIN holders should never exchange their identity for cash. It’s not only dangerous, it’s illegal.”

NIMC reiterated that one’s NIN is sensitive personal data and should be used strictly for accessing verified government and private services. The Commission also warned that anyone caught submitting or collecting NINs unlawfully will be sanctioned accordingly.

This is not the first time NIMC is sounding the alarm. The Commission had earlier cautioned Nigerians to steer clear of fake websites and fraudulent agents promising financial incentives in return for personal identity information.

To report suspicious NIN collection or related activities, the public is encouraged to contact NIMC via email at *nimccustomercare@nimc.gov.ng, or by calling **0700-2255-646* or *019-230-00010*.

NIMC also extended its appreciation to Nigeria’s security agencies for their ongoing support in safeguarding the integrity of the NIN enrollment process.