The National Identification Number (NIN) consists of 11 non- intelligible numbers randomly chosen and assigned to an individual after the completion of enrolment into the National Identity Database (NIDB).
Once a NIN is assigned to an individual, it can never be reassigned, given or used by another person – that makes it unique in nature.
In the case of the demise of an individual, his/her NIN is retired once a death certificate is presented to the Commission and the individual’s death is established.
The NIN is used to tie all records about an individual in the database and is also used to establish or verify his/her identity.
All citizens and legal residents in Nigeria, from age zero (birth) and above are eligible to enrol for their NINs.
How do I enrol for NIN?
NIN Enrolment consists of the recording of an individual’s demographic data and capture of the ten (10) fingerprints, head-to-shoulder facial picture and digital signature, which are all used to cross-check existing data in the National Identity Database to confirm that there is no previous entry of the same data.
It is very important that you apply on the NIMC Pre Enrolment Portal and follow the process as defined for applying for National Identification Number.
Please note that applicants in requirement of assistance with Enrolment Form have an option to take appointment and visit the Enrolment Centre where they will be assisted by a Support Officer in correctly filling the Enrolment Form with the required information.
Where should I apply and submit my biometric details?
All applicants residing outside Nigeria (citizens and legal residents of Nigeria) have the facility to submit their application at nearest National Identification Number Enrolment Centre (NINEC) by taking appointment as per their convenience for submitting their enrolment application along with requisite Original and Valid supporting document and relevant fees using secure online payment gateway portal.
Are minors issued NIN ?
Yes, all citizens and legal residents of Nigeria including children must enrol for the National Identification Number (NIN). The enrolment process is the same with some additional requirements as below:
Parent/Guardian’s National Identification Number (NIN) Slip ( father, mother or guardian’s NIN ) MUST be provided.
Supporting documents and evidence of proof as the Guardian to the minor (if Guardian’s NIN is used).
Registered Birth Certificate/ Statutory Age Declaration.
All minors MUST be accompanied by at least one of the parents or a Guardian.
What is biometrics enrolment?
The term ‘biometrics’ commonly refers to measurable physical characteristics that are unique to an individual such as fingerprints, facial structure, the iris or a person’s voice.
Biometrics will be collected using a quick, discreet and non-intrusive process that captures a facial image with a digital camera and a 10-digit fingerprint scan with a digital finger scanner.
How long does it take to complete enrolment?
The biometric enrolment is processed during enrolment of NIN application and takes up to 10 to 15 minutes.
I currently reside in the place where the Enrolment center is not located. Can I still apply for the NIN from Enrolment center?
All applicants residing outside Nigeria (citizens and legal residents of Nigeria) have the facility to submit their applications at nearest National Identification Number Enrolment Centre (NINEC) by taking appointment as per their convenience and submitting their enrolment application along with requisite Original and Valid supporting document and relevant fees using secure online payment gateway portal.
I am just not comfortable with the online application. Can you help me with the enrolment application?
Yes, there is “walk in and get assistance from a Support Officer” method of enrolment available at nominal cost.
Since you are not comfortable with filling the online pre enrolment form on your own, walk in to the nearest Enrolment Centre where you will be assisted by a Support Officer whose responsibility is to guide you with correctly filling the Enrolment Form with the required information and book your appointment.
Do I need to submit my supporting documents along with enrolment application?
As a part of enrolment process, your supporting documents will be scanned and immediately returned to you.
I submitted the wrong information on the pre enrolment form.
Your details will be vetted by Enrolment Officer to crosscheck the information filled on the pre enrolment form against the supporting document provided by you.
In case of mismatch you will have to re-apply for a new application with the correct information.
What is a Transaction Slip and when it is given to the applicant?
If your application is in order, Enrolment officer will guide you to proceed with the capture of biometrics (ten finger prints and facial image) and collect the Transaction ID Slip as an evidence of the transaction.
The Transaction ID Slip is required to be stored carefully by applicant as it is required to be presented at the time of collection of NIN Slip indicating completion of enrolment.
When should I come and collect my NIN Slip once it is generated?
You can ideally collect your NIN slips at the same enrolment centres where you enrolled on the same day of your enrolment, but in certain circumstances applicants are expected to collect their NIN Slip within 3- 5 days of enrolment.
You will receive an Email notification that your NIN Slip has been generated.
