Nigeria: NIMC Temporarily Suspends Third-Party Agents from NIN Registration Amidst Revalidation Exercise

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has announced the temporary suspension of Front-End Partners (FEPs) from participating in the enrolment process for the National Identification Number (NIN). This suspension is part of an ongoing revalidation exercise aimed at addressing multiple infractions and ensuring compliance with the highest standards of data security.

Abisoye Coker-Odusote, the Director General of NIMC, disclosed this development during the opening of a four-day training for the first batch of newly revalidated Front End Partners in Abuja. Coker-Odusote emphasized that the revalidation exercise is a crucial step toward improving the enrolment process and addressing outstanding debts owed to the Front-End Partners.

The Director General acknowledged the presence of multiple infractions and unwholesome practices in the NIN enrolment and modification processes, with a significant number attributed to Front-End Partners. The revalidation exercise, implemented in phases, aims to sanitize the system, ensure process integrity, and conduct a proper audit of claims made by FEPs.

Coker-Odusote clarified that the decision to suspend NIN enrolment activities at all FEP centers is temporary and contingent upon the outcome of the revalidation exercise. The goal is to eradicate corruption and non-compliance, emphasizing that NIN enrolment is free of charge in Nigeria.

The revalidation process, initiated in October, is mandatory for all current partners, focusing on aligning with the latest standards and protocols. The NIMC is working in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission and security agencies to leverage NIN and SIM databases for enhanced tracking of kidnappers and victims.

During a stakeholder engagement, Coker-Odusote affirmed the commitment to integrate and unify the identity system, addressing the challenges faced by citizens during enrolment. The President’s directive emphasizes the need to create a robust, seamless, and inclusive enrolment system that leaves no one behind.