How to Get a National Identification Number (NIN)

All Nigerian citizens and legal permanent residents are required to register for the National Identification Number. As such, the following discourse will centre on the process of acquiring your NIN in Nigeria and obtaining the corresponding identification card.

What is a National Identification Number NIN

The National Identification Number (NIN) is a unique numerical identifier assigned to individuals upon completion of enrollment. This process involves recording demographic details, capturing ten fingerprints, a head-to-shoulder facial image, and a digital signature. These elements are cross-checked against the existing National Identity Database to prevent duplicate entries. Once the de-duplication process is done, the data is stored with a unique, non-reusable NIN.

The NIN, consisting of 11 non-intelligible random numbers, uniquely ties all records about an individual in the database and serves as a means to verify identity. Once issued, a NIN cannot be reassigned or used by another person, ensuring its uniqueness. In case of an individual’s demise, the NIN is retired upon presentation of a death certificate.

Eligibility For NIN

All citizens and legal residents in Nigeria, starting from birth, are eligible to enrol for their NINs. It is crucial to safeguard the NIN and disclose it only to relevant authorities when required, avoiding public disclosure or printing on personal stationery.

Collection of the NIN

Enrollment for the NIN is mandatory for every citizen and legal resident, with the process being the same for self-service or assisted service. Minors receive their National Identity cards at the age of 16. Upon completion of enrollment, applicants receive two slips: a transaction slip and a NIN slip indicating the process’s completion. NIN collection requires in-person biometric verification and cannot be done by proxy.

Why You Need Your NIN

The NIN is essential for various transactions in Nigeria, such as obtaining the National e-ID card, international passport application, opening bank accounts, acquiring a driver’s license, obtaining a Permanent Voters’ Card, participating in the National Health Insurance Scheme, paying taxes, engaging in pension-related activities, and accessing government services. The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) is actively collaborating with various agencies to harmonize and integrate data, ensuring seamless coordination across services.

How to Apply for NIN in Nigeria – A Simple Guide

Getting your National Identification Number (NIN) in Nigeria is a straightforward process, and the best part is that the enrolment service is free! Whether you’re an adult (above 16 years) or enrolling a minor (0-15 years), here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

For Adults (Above 16 Years):

1. Visit the nearest NIMC Enrolment Centre with your BVN (if available) and any valid supporting documents, such as an old National ID Card, Driver’s License, Voter’s card, Nigerian International passport, Certificate of Origin, and more.
2. Fill out an enrolment form if it’s your first time or provide the printed Barcode slip from a pre-enrolment.
3. A NIMC Official will crosscheck your information against the supporting documents and assist with form-filling if needed.
4. Your pre-filled details will be entered into the NIMC Software, and your biometrics (ten fingerprints and facial images) will be captured.
5. After completing the enrolment, you’ll receive a Transaction ID Slip. Remember, this doesn’t grant you the National Identification Number right away; you’ll need to return in 1-5 working days for the NIN.
6. You’ll be issued a National Identification Number (NIN) Slip after processing, and the National e-ID Card will be issued within 12 months.

For Minors (0-15 Years):

1. Head to the nearest NIMC Enrolment Centre with your child and necessary supporting documents, including the parent/guardian’s NIN Slip.
2. If it’s the first time, fill out an enrolment form or provide the printed Barcode slip from a pre-enrolment.
3. A NIMC Official will verify if your child has been enrolled before and crosscheck the information against the supporting documents.
4. The child’s pre-filled details will be entered into the NIMC Software, and the biometrics will be captured.
5. After enrolment, you’ll get a Transaction Slip, but remember, the NIN isn’t granted immediately. Return in 1-5 working days for the NIN.
6. A National Identification Number (NIN) Slip will be issued, but the National e-ID Card will wait until the child turns 16.

The enrolment process is available Monday to Friday (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.), with a 95% availability rate. Just keep in mind the dependencies like network availability and power for the enrolment system. It’s a crucial step to ensure you’re identified for life, making various transactions in Nigeria smoother.

References:

https://www.nimc.gov.ng/how-to-enrol-adults/

https://www.nimc.gov.ng/how-to-enrol-minors/

https://www.nimc.gov.ng/about-nin/

https://www.nimc.gov.ng/nin-importance/