By Stella Odueme
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has dismissed a viral social media video alleging a breach of the National Identification Number (NIN) database, describing the claim as false and unfounded.
The Commission, in a statement signed by its Head of Corporate Communications, Kayode Adegoke, PhD, on Thursday, said the video was a recycled report originally circulated in 2024 and subsequently disclaimed by NIMC.
NIMC said its National Identity Database (NIDB) had not been breached or compromised, assuring Nigerians and legal residents that it maintains multi-layered security systems to safeguard personal identity information.
According to the Commission, the circulation of the unverified video could mislead members of the public and create unnecessary panic.
It therefore urged Nigerians to disregard the claims and rely on NIMC's official communication channels for information concerning the National Identity Management System.
The Commission also highlighted its recently launched NIN Authentication (NINAuth), a suite of web, API and mobile verification services designed to strengthen data security, protect privacy and simplify access to government services.
NIMC said NINAuth provides an official channel for integrating with its backend infrastructure while giving individuals greater control over how their personal information is shared.
It explained that the platform requires the explicit consent of NIN holders before their data can be shared for Know Your Customer (KYC) processes or other verification purposes.
The Commission added that NINAuth enables individuals to securely 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.
NIMC said the initiative was in line with the provisions of the NIMC Act, 2026, and the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, which provide for the fair, lawful and transparent handling of personal data.
The Commission reiterated its commitment to protecting the identity information of Nigerians and legal residents, adding that it would continue to work with security and other relevant agencies to strengthen its systems and combat misinformation.
It encouraged members of the public with concerns about their NIN or personal data to contact the Commission through its official channels, including its toll-free line 0800 08000616462 and emails ieu@nimc.gov.ng and actu@nimc.gov.ng.