By Queen Kunde
Starting Monday, February 16, 2026, Nigerians will be able to register for their National Identification Number (NIN) right in their own wards and communities.
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) announced that it is taking NIN enrollment to the grassroots across the country. The move follows a presidential directive ordering the commission to bring registration closer to the people.
The nationwide exercise is aimed at registering every Nigerian citizen and legal resident both children and adults into the National Identity Database. NIMC stressed that the enrollment will be completely free.
According to the commission, the ward-level registration will make it easier for people to get their NIN without traveling long distances. It is also expected to boost participation and ensure that no one is left out.
NIMC said it has begun working with state and local governments, traditional rulers, community leaders, market groups, and religious organizations to spread awareness and ensure a smooth exercise across all wards.
The commission urged Nigerians who have not yet registered to take advantage of the opportunity. Parents are encouraged to enroll their children, while families are advised to help elderly members and relatives get registered.
Details of the ward-by-ward schedule and movement of registration teams are available on the NIMC website at www.nimc.gov.ng.
For questions, help, or complaints, members of the public can call the toll-free line: 0800 061 6462.