2026 SSCE: No NIN, No Exam — NIMC Issues Final Warning to Nigerian Parents

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued a crucial advisory to Nigerian parents and guardians, confirming that the National Identification Number (NIN) is now compulsory for students preparing for the 2026 Senior Secondary Certificate Examinations (SSCE).

The commission explained that the directive is part of efforts to prevent registration challenges and ensure a seamless examination process for candidates nationwide.

Why NIN Is Now Important for Students

According to NIMC, the National Identification Number is no longer optional but has become an essential academic requirement. Students will need their NIN for:

School registration

External examinations

Scholarship applications

Government educational programmes and benefits

In its public notice, the commission reminded parents that obtaining a NIN early will help students avoid last-minute issues that could affect exam enrollment.

Ward Enrollment Strategy Brings Registration Closer

To make the process easier, NIMC has introduced a Ward Enrollment Strategy, decentralising registration centres to community levels across the country.

This initiative allows parents and students to register within their local wards instead of travelling long distances to major enrollment offices.

Parents are encouraged to locate the nearest ward enrollment centre and complete registration before examination deadlines.

How to Find the Nearest Enrollment Centre

To reduce stress, NIMC has provided multiple ways for Nigerians to locate registration centres:

Visit the official NIMC website

Use available digital location tools

Call the commission’s toll-free support line

This move supports the government’s “Assured Identity” initiative aimed at giving every Nigerian child a recognised digital identity.

Requirements for Candidates Under 16 Years

For minors registering for NIN:

A parent or guardian with a valid NIN must be present

The child must attend enrollment physically

Original birth certificate or declaration of age is required

NIN Registration Is Free

The commission also warned parents against paying unauthorized agents, stressing that NIN enrollment is completely free at all official centres.

Final Advice to Parents

With the 2026 SSCE approaching, parents and guardians are advised to act early. Securing a NIN now will help students avoid delays, registration rejection, or disqualification during examination processing.

Early registration remains the safest way to ensure candidates are fully prepared for the 2026 examination exercise.