The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that Nigeria’s National Identification Number (NIN) database has been breached.
In a statement issued by its Head of Corporate Communications, Kayode Adegoke, and published on the commission’s official X handle on Thursday, NIMC described the claims as “false and unfounded.” It said the video being circulated was a recycled report from 2024 that had previously been debunked.
The commission stated that its National Identity Database (NIDB) had not been breached or compromised at any time.
NIMC said it maintains a robust, multi-layered security infrastructure to protect the personal data of registered citizens and legal residents, in line with international best practices.
It expressed concern over the spread of unverified information, warning that such claims could mislead the public and create unnecessary panic.
The commission urged Nigerians to disregard the video and obtain information about the National Identity Management System only through its official communication channels.
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NIMC also highlighted its recently launched NIN Authentication (NINAuth), a suite of web, API and mobile verification services designed to strengthen data security and privacy.
According to the commission, NINAuth requires the explicit consent of NIN holders before their data is shared for Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures or other verification purposes.
NIMC said the service allows individuals to verify their identities for SIM registration, immigration and passport processing, tax filings and financial transactions without unnecessarily exposing their raw NIN or personal information.
The commission added that the initiative supports compliance with the NIMC Act 2026 and the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, which provide guidelines for the fair, lawful and transparent handling of personal data.
NIMC reiterated its commitment to protecting the identity information of Nigerians and legal residents, adding that it would continue working with relevant security agencies to strengthen its systems and counter misinformation.
