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The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued a stern warning to Nigerians, particularly young people, over the rising trend of individuals selling their National Identification Number (NIN) and personal data for as little as ₦1,500.
The caution comes on the heels of recent revelations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which uncovered a black market where personal identification data is being traded and resold to fintech platforms for up to ₦5,000. This underground activity poses serious threats to national security and individual privacy.
Highlighting the gravity of the issue, NIMC’s Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Kayode Adegoke, described the practice as a dangerous compromise of personal identity. “Sharing your data with unauthorised agents is equivalent to handing over control of your identity. This goes beyond petty fraud—it is a national security concern,” he stated.
NIMC emphasised that it will not be held responsible for the misuse of personal data willingly disclosed by individuals or transferred to third parties for financial gain. Citizens are advised to remain vigilant and only share their NIN details with officially authorised service providers.
Service providers, on their part, have been reminded that all NINs submitted for verification must be authenticated through approved and secure channels before any service is rendered.
To enhance individual data protection, NIMC is encouraging Nigerians to download and use the NINAuth App, available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The app offers users greater control over access to their identity information and helps secure their data from unauthorised use.
In a strong concluding message, the Commission urged citizens to value and protect their digital identity: “Your identity is not for sale. Let it be protected by you—not traded for a short-term gain.”
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