*Advises Nigerians Against Submission Of NIN To Unauthorised Persons
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), in conjunction with security agencies, has arrested some suspects in Anambra State illegally collecting residents National Identification Number (NIN) for money compensation.
It advised Nigerians to avoid submitting their NINs to unauthorized individuals, organizations, or platforms, as the Federal Government and NIMC have not authorized such move.
This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by Kayode Adegoke, Head, Corporate Communications Unit.
It reads "The National Identity Management Commission has been notified of the activities of unauthorised individuals or organisations purportedly asking for the submission of the National Identification Number (NIN) of Anambra residents in exchange for money, which contravenes the NIMC Act No 23, 2007, Data Protection Act, and Cyber Crime Act
"Upon receiving the information on the activities of the unscrupulous individuals, NIMC, in conjunction with the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), swiftly arrested the culprits behind the illegal collection of the NIN. They are currently being interrogated and would be made to face the full wrath of the law.
"The Commission, therefore, advises Anambra State residents and Nigerians to avoid submitting their NINs to unauthorized individuals, organizations, or platforms, as the Federal Government and NIMC have not authorized this. Anyone caught will he sanctioned appwopriately
"At no time should NIN holders give out their NINs for monetary compensation. This is against the laws of the Federation. Anyone caught will be dealt with appropriately."
The Commission, the statement noted, had earlier issued a statement warning Nigerians against sharing their NIN or Data with anyone or on any fictitious sites.
It stressed that the NIN can only be used by the holders for necessary government or private sector services, which must first be verified.
It added "The Commission has taken necessary measures to curb the activities of these unscrupulous individuals. The general public is hereby advised to reach out to the Commission whenever they notice the indiscriminate collection of NIN via: nimecustomercare@nime.gov.ng; 07002255646; 01923000010
"NIMC wishes to thank all security agencies for their support towards the credibility and success of the NIN enrolment project." it stated