Steps To Take To Get Your National Identification Number (NIN)

Without a form of identification, you cannot fully claim to be a citizen of a country. Nigerians can use an international passport, a voter’s card, or a driver’s license to prove their identity. The National Identity Card, which bears a unique number, remains the most recognizable and commonly accepted form of identity.

Nowadays, your national identity number is necessary for practically everything you do in Nigeria, including opening a bank account and obtaining a SIM card. Obtaining your national identity number is free and does not take long provided you follow the proper processes. Enrollment procedures are classified into three types:

1. Self-Servicing:

In this situation, you stroll into a registration center and apply on your own. All you have to do is fill out an enrollment form, submit it to the officer on duty, and complete your biometrics before receiving your NIN.

2. Helped Service:

For the supported service, you go in and receive assistance from a support officer who assists you inappropriately filling out your form and ensuring that your application is completed. This service is primarily for persons who cannot read or write. It simplifies the process for them and helps to reduce time waste.

3. Mobile Service:

You can also walk into a mobile enrollment center in your neighborhood and choose between self-service and assisted service. Look online for mobile enrollment centers near you.

There are various actions you must take to obtain your unique national identity number. They are as follows:

Step 1: Bring the relevant paperwork to the nearest NIMC enrolment center (any means of identification and your BVN if you have one). Check to see if you have previously enrolled; if so, use your old national identity number.

Step 2: Obtain and complete the enrollment form, including all essential information.

Step 3: Return the completed form to the enrollment officer, who will enter your information into the online enrollment application.

Step 4: To avoid errors, verify and confirm the enrolling data on the system.

Step 5: Photograph your headshot, fingerprints, and signature.

Step 6: Give your supporting documents to the enrolling officer to scan.

Step 7: Your enrollment is confirmed, and two slips are issued to you. The first slip should be a transaction slip, and the second should be a NIN slip signifying enrolment completion.

Supporting Documents

If you have one and any of the following required Original and Valid supporting documents, walk into the nearest NIMC Enrolment Centre with your BVN:

Old National Identification Card

Driving Permit

Voter registration card (Temporary or Permanent)

International Nigerian Passport

Origin Certificate

A letter of attestation from a notable ruler in your community

Certificate of Birth

Age declaration

Religious/traditional leader attestation letter

NHIS identification card

ID cards for government employees

Staff ID card for a registered/recognized private organization

Tax clearance certificate

School ID card (private/public)

Genuine immigration documents

Nigerian Refugee Commission (NCFR) Certificate of Refugee Status

ID card for refugees

Fact Sheet on Refugees

The federal government has made it mandatory for all Nigerians to link their NIN with their sim, thus you must obtain your NIN if you do not already have one. If you have the necessary documents and follow the steps outlined above, obtaining your NIN should be simple.