The National Identity Management Commission in Nigeria has reassured citizens that the National Identity Database remains secure, despite allegations of a data breach. The commission dismissed claims that citizens' National Identification Number and Bank Verification Number details have been compromised and are being sold to unauthorized individuals. According to NIMC, a viral social media video alleging the unauthorized sale of Nigerians' personal information is false and unfounded.
The allegations originated from a report published in 2024, which NIMC had previously refuted. The commission expressed concern over the renewed circulation of the claims. The controversial video alleged that individuals could purchase NIN and BVN details for as little as N100. It further claimed that some NIMC officials in Lagos were selling citizens' NIN information for N1,000 outside the commission's office.
NIMC insisted that the National Identity Database has not experienced any unauthorized access or compromise. The commission stated that its database is protected by robust, multi-layered security infrastructure designed to safeguard the personal information of registered Nigerian citizens and legal residents in accordance with international data protection standards.
The commission cautioned against the circulation of unverified information concerning the national identity management system. NIMC warned that misleading reports could generate unnecessary public anxiety and undermine confidence in the protection of citizens' personal data. The commission urged the public to disregard the video's content and obtain information about the National Identity Management System only from NIMC's official channels.
As part of its efforts to strengthen identity verification and prevent unauthorized disclosure of personal information, NIMC highlighted the introduction of its recently launched NIN Authentication platform. The platform provides identity verification through web-based services, application programming interfaces, and mobile applications. It is designed to improve data privacy while enabling individuals and organizations to authenticate identities securely.
The NIN Authentication platform incorporates a consent-based verification mechanism requiring the explicit approval of NIN holders before their personal information can be shared for Know Your Customer procedures or other identity verification purposes. This initiative enables individuals to access essential public and private sector services without unnecessarily exposing sensitive identification details to third parties.
NIMC reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with security agencies and other relevant institutions to reinforce its digital infrastructure, address emerging security concerns, and counter the spread of misinformation about the national identity database. The commission urged Nigerians with concerns about the security of their NIN or other personal information to seek clarification directly through its official communication channels.
Key points
- NIMC assures Nigerians of the security of the National Identity Database.
- The commission dismisses allegations of data breach as false and unfounded.
- NIMC introduces NIN Authentication platform to strengthen identity verification and protect citizens' information.
