No New Breach to NIN Database—NIMC

By Adedapo Adesanya

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has dismissed viral claims that Nigeria’s National Identification Number (NIN) database has been breached.

The commission described the reports as false and recycled, saying the video circulating on social media was an old report that had already been published and disclaimed in 2024.

In a statement signed by its Head of Corporate Communications, Mr Kayode Adegoke, the commission said the National Identity Database had not been compromised.

NIMC said it operates a multi-layered security system to protect the personal information of registered citizens and legal residents.

“The Commission urges the public to disregard the misleading video and avoid unnecessary panic,” it said.

The agency advised Nigerians to obtain information about the National Identity Management System only through its official communication channels.

NIMC also highlighted its NIN Authentication (NINAuth) platform, which it said provides additional safeguards for identity verification and data protection.

According to the Commission, NINAuth requires the explicit consent of NIN holders before their data can be shared for Know Your Customer and other verification processes.

It said the platform also enables identity verification for services such as SIM registration, passport applications, tax filings and financial transactions without exposing raw NINs or other sensitive personal information.

NIMC said the system complies with the NIMC Act 2026 and the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023.

The commission added that it would continue working with security agencies to counter misinformation and safeguard the integrity of the national identity system.

It urged members of the public with concerns about their NIN or identity records to contact the Commission through its official support channels.