The Federal Government has launched a serious crackdown on individuals and organizations involved in the unauthorized printing of National Identification Number (NIN) cards. In a statement released on Monday, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) warned that offenders would face legal consequences for their involvement in this illegal activity.
NIMC raised concerns about cyber cafés and other entities producing fake NIN cards, charging unsuspecting Nigerians exorbitant fees for these counterfeit documents. According to the commission, the unauthorized production and distribution of NIN cards violate the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, and the public is cautioned not to use or accept these fraudulent cards as valid identification.
Adegoke, a spokesperson for NIMC, emphasized, “The so-called NIN card is not authorized by NIMC, and on no account should anyone present it as a means of identification.” The agency further stated that security agencies have been alerted and are now tasked with apprehending those engaged in this illegal activity.
NIMC also reminded the public that the NIN slip is the only valid proof of identification and must be properly verified before use. The commission confirmed that, as of February 28, 2025, 117.3 million Nigerians have been successfully enrolled in the NIN database.
The crackdown aims to protect the integrity of the national identification system and prevent exploitation by fraudulent operators.
