RismadarVoice Reporters
November 2, 2026
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has announced the arrest of suspected illegal National Identification Number (NIN) enrolment operators in Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory, as part of efforts to combat unauthorised registration, unlawful data modification and extortion.
The commission said its Inspectorate Compliance and Enforcement Unit carried out the operation following intensified surveillance and enforcement activities targeting individuals allegedly providing identity registration services without approval.
According to a statement attributed to NIMC’s Head of Corporate Communications, Kayode Adegoke, equipment suspected to have been used for illegal enrolment activities was also recovered during the operation.
The commission said the enforcement exercise was intended to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s national identity database and prevent unauthorised individuals from exploiting applicants seeking registration or changes to their personal information.
NIMC Director-General, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, reiterated the commission’s zero-tolerance policy towards extortion, illegal enrolment and unethical practices involving national identity services.
She warned that individuals and organisations operating outside the commission’s approved framework risk enforcement action and possible prosecution.
The commission advised Nigerians to register for their NIN only through officially recognised enrolment centres and accredited service providers.
It also reminded members of the public that initial NIN enrolment is free and cautioned against making payments to unauthorised agents promising faster registration or special access to identity records.
For corrections or modifications to personal information, applicants were directed to use the commission’s approved self-service modification platform rather than informal intermediaries.
NIMC further encouraged NIN holders to download its official NINAuth application, which provides digital identity authentication services and features designed to strengthen the protection of personal information.
The application also supports access to identity-related services, including NIN slip management.
The commission stressed that protecting personal identity information requires cooperation from citizens, authorised service providers and relevant security agencies.
It urged members of the public to report suspicious enrolment activities, attempted extortion and unauthorised requests for sensitive identity information.
Nigerians seeking assistance or clarification were advised to visit the commission’s official website or contact its toll-free customer service line, 0800 0616 462.
The latest enforcement action underscores NIMC’s continuing efforts to strengthen compliance and prevent abuse of Nigeria’s national identification system.
