The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has dismissed viral claims alleging that Nigeria’s National Identification Number (NIN) database has been breached or compromised.
NIMC described the reports circulating on social media as false and unfounded, urging Nigerians to disregard the information.
In a statement issued by its Head of Corporate Communications, Kayode Adegoke, and shared on the Commission’s official X handle on Thursday, NIMC said the video being circulated was an old report from 2024 that had previously been disclaimed.
The Commission said there had been no breach of the National Identity Database (NIDB).
“NIMC’s National Identity Database (NIDB) has not been breached or compromised at any point,” the statement said.
According to NIMC, it operates a robust, multi-layered security infrastructure designed to protect the personal information of Nigerians and legal residents registered in the national identity system.
The Commission said its security measures are aligned with international best practices for the protection of personal data.
NIMC also 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 obtain information concerning the National Identity Management System only through its official communication channels.
“NIMC urges the public to disregard the video’s content and obtain information about the National Identity Management System only from NIMC’s official channels,” it stated.
NIMC highlights NINAuth security system
The Commission also drew attention to its recently launched NIN Authentication, known as NINAuth, which it described as a suite of web, API and mobile verification services designed to improve identity verification while strengthening data security and privacy.
According to NIMC, NINAuth requires the explicit consent of a NIN holder before personal information is shared for Know Your Customer processes or other verification purposes.
The Commission said the system allows individuals to verify their identities for services including SIM registration, immigration and passport processing, tax filings and financial transactions without unnecessarily exposing their raw NIN or other personal information.
“With NINAuth, individuals can securely verify their identity for services such as SIM registration, immigration and passport processing, tax filings, and financial transactions—without unnecessarily exposing their raw NIN or personal data,” NIMC said.
NIMC added that the initiative forms part of its efforts to comply with the NIMC Act 2026 and the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, which provide guidelines for the fair, lawful and transparent processing of personal data.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the identity information of Nigerians and legal residents.
It also said it would continue to work with relevant security agencies to strengthen its systems and public awareness efforts aimed at countering misinformation about the national identity database.
