Authorities have issued a stern warning over illegal attempts to obtain Nigerians’ National Identification Numbers (NINs) in exchange for money, following the emergence of a fraudulent operation in Anambra State.
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), in a statement on Wednesday, confirmed that it had uncovered a scheme where individuals were being approached to surrender their NINs for financial reward.
The Commission described the activity as unlawful and a breach of several national laws, including the NIMC Act, the Data Protection Act, and the Cybercrime Act.
Reacting swiftly, the agency revealed that several arrests have been made in partnership with security operatives, including the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force. The apprehended suspects are currently under investigation.
“The Commission has not authorised any individual or organisation to collect NINs in return for cash,” said Dr. Kayode Adegoke, NIMC’s spokesperson. “Such actions are criminal and threaten the security of personal data.”
NIMC further cautioned the public against disclosing sensitive information like NINs to unverified persons or platforms, citing potential risks such as identity theft and misuse of data.
The Commission urged Nigerians to remain cautious and report suspicious activities to its official channels, reiterating that NINs are strictly for use in accessing authorised government and private sector services.
