NIMC Debunks Viral Claims of NIN Data Breach, Reassures Nigerians on Data Security

 

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has dismissed a viral social media video alleging that the National Identification Number (NIN) database has been breached.

In a press statement issued in Abuja, the Commission described the claim as false and unfounded, urging Nigerians and legal residents to disregard the video.

NIMC said the video currently circulating online is based on a recycled report that was originally published in 2024 and was subsequently debunked by the Commission.

NIN Database Has Not Been Breached, NIMC Says

According to NIMC, the National Identity Database (NIDB) has not been breached or compromised.

The Commission said it maintains a multi-layered security infrastructure designed to protect the personal information of registered citizens and legal residents.

NIMC added that its security measures are implemented in line with international best practices for the protection of identity and personal data.

The Commission expressed concern over the circulation of unverified information, noting that such claims could mislead members of the public and create unnecessary panic.

It therefore advised Nigerians to obtain information concerning the National Identity Management System only through NIMC's official communication channels.

NIMC Highlights NINAuth Security Platform

NIMC also highlighted its recently launched NIN Authentication (NINAuth) platform, which it described as a suite of services covering web, API and mobile identity verification.

According to the Commission, NINAuth was developed to strengthen data security, improve privacy protection and make it easier for individuals to access services that require identity verification.

The platform serves as an official channel for integrating with NIMC's backend infrastructure while providing additional protection for personal information.

NINAuth Requires User Consent

One of the features highlighted by NIMC is the requirement for explicit consent from the NIN holder before their information is shared for Know Your Customer (KYC) or other verification purposes.

The Commission said this approach is intended to strengthen transparency and give individuals greater control over how their identity information is used.

Through NINAuth, individuals can verify their identities for services including SIM registration, immigration and passport processing, tax-related services and financial transactions, without unnecessarily exposing their raw NIN or other personal information.

NIMC Urges Nigerians To Ignore Unverified Claims

NIMC has urged Nigerians not to share or rely on unverified social media reports concerning the NIN database.

The Commission maintained that the National Identity Database remains secure and encouraged members of the public to rely on official NIMC channels for updates regarding NIN, identity verification and other services.

For NIN-related issues, Nigerians should verify information before taking any action or providing personal information to third parties.