The National Identity Management Commission has dismissed a viral claim that Nigeria’s National Identity Database has been hacked, describing the allegation as false and urging Nigerians not to panic over the circulating video.
NIMC said its National Identity Database has not been breached or compromised and that it operates multiple layers of security to protect the personal information of registered citizens and legal residents.
The commission’s response came after a video began circulating on social media alleging that sensitive information contained in the National Identification Number database had been exposed. Brandspur Brand News reports that NIMC described the material as a recycled story that had also circulated in 2024 and was subsequently disclaimed by the commission.
The agency said the circulation of unverified claims about the identity system was particularly concerning because of the potential to create unnecessary fear among millions of Nigerians who rely on their NIN for important transactions and government services.
NIMC said it recently introduced NINAuth as part of efforts to strengthen identity verification and improve the protection of personal information. The system provides web, API and mobile verification services and is designed to allow identity checks without unnecessarily exposing a person’s raw NIN or other personal details.
The commission said NINAuth requires the explicit consent of the NIN holder before information is shared for Know Your Customer processes and other verification purposes.
NIN is increasingly tied to everyday services in Nigeria. NIMC lists international passport applications, bank account transactions, driving licences, tax payments and access to various government services among the activities for which the identity number can be used.
The development comes as Nigeria strengthens the legal framework governing its national identity infrastructure. President Bola Tinubu signed the NIMC Act 2026 into law in June, with the commission saying the new legislation provides a modern framework for identity management, data protection, cybersecurity and secure information exchange.
NIMC also reminded Nigerians that their NIN should be kept secure and should not be unnecessarily disclosed online or shared with unauthorised persons. The commission’s official guidance advises individuals to protect the number and provide it only to relevant authorities when required.
The agency urged anyone seeking information about the National Identity Management System to rely on its verified communication channels rather than unverified social media posts. NIMC’s official contact information includes its toll free line, 08000616462, and its customer service channels.
