The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued a critical alert to Nigerians about unauthorized printing of National Identification Number (NIN) cards by cybercafés, individuals, and organizations. This illegal practice violates the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, and offenders risk prosecution. Here’s what you need to know to protect your identity and comply with the law.
Unauthorized NIN Cards: A Growing Threat
In an official statement, NIMC’s Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Kayode Adegoke, emphasized that only the NIMC General Multi-Purpose Card (GMPC) is legally recognized for identification purposes. Cybercafés and third parties offering “NIN card printing” services are engaging in fraud, and security agencies have been directed to clamp down on these activities.
Key Warnings from NIMC:
-Stop using unauthorized NIN cards for identification.
- Only the official NIN slip (digital or print) is valid for verification.
-Printing, selling, or using fake NIN cards is punishable under Nigerian law.
Why Is This Illegal?
The NIMC Act explicitly grants the Commission sole authority to issue national identity documents. Unapproved cards lack security features, expose users to identity theft, and undermine Nigeria’s identity management system.
What to Do Instead:
1. Verify your NIN through NIMC’s official portals or approved partners.
2. Wait for the improved GMPC: NIMC will soon launch a new multi-purpose card combining identification and payment capabilities via AfriGO, Nigeria’s local payment platform.
New NIMC Card Coming Soon: Enhanced Features for Citizens
To address demand for physical ID, NIMC announced the upcoming release of an upgraded General Multi-Purpose Card (GMPC). This card will:
✅ Serve as a government-recognized ID.
✅ Function as a payment card powered by AfriGO.
✅ Offer enhanced security and convenience.
Stay tuned to NIMC’s official channels for launch updates.
How to Report Fraudulent Activity
NIMC urges citizens to report illegal NIN card printing or suspicious services immediately.
Contact NIMC via:
- ☎️ 0700 2255 646 or 0815 505 3888
- 📧 Email: [nimccustomercare@nimc.gov.ng] and [ieu@nimc.gov.ng] or Social Media: Follow NIMC
Key Takeaways for Nigerians
- Only the NIMC-issued GMPC and NIN slip are valid.
- Avoid cybercafés offering NIN card printing– they’re illegal.
- Wait for the official GMPC launch for a secure, multi-functional ID.
Verify your NIN statustoday through NIMC’s official channels.
Share this post to raise awareness and protect others from scams.
🚨 Report fraud immediately if you encounter unauthorized NIN services.
By staying informed and vigilant, we can safeguard our identities and support Nigeria’s digital identity system.
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