NIMC Denies Viral Claims of NIN Data Breach

The National Identity Management Commission has denied reports circulating on social media that Nigeria’s National Identification Number database has been hacked or compromised.

NIMC made the clarification on Thursday in a statement issued by its Head of Corporate Communications, Kayode Adegoke, and shared on the commission’s official X account.

The commission said the viral video being circulated alongside the reports was not a recent incident, explaining that it was an old report from 2024 that had already been dismissed when it first emerged.

NIMC stated that its National Identity Database has not been breached or compromised and said the personal information of Nigerians and legal residents registered in the system remains protected.

The commission explained that it operates several layers of security measures designed to protect identity information and prevent unauthorised access to its database. It said the security system is maintained in line with accepted international standards.

NIMC also expressed concern about the spread of unverified information on social media, saying such claims could confuse members of the public and create unnecessary fear.

The commission urged Nigerians to disregard the viral video and rely on information released through its official communication channels when seeking updates about the National Identity Management System.

NIMC also drew attention to its recently introduced NIN Authentication service, known as NINAuth, which provides web, application programming interface and mobile-based tools for identity verification.

According to the commission, the system is designed to improve the security and privacy of personal information during identity checks.

NIMC said NINAuth requires the consent of the NIN holder before personal information can be shared for Know Your Customer procedures or other verification purposes.

The commission explained that the service allows individuals to confirm their identities for services such as SIM registration, immigration and passport applications, tax-related processes and financial transactions without requiring unnecessary exposure of their raw NIN or other personal details.

NIMC said the initiative forms part of its efforts to meet the requirements of the NIMC Act 2026 and the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, which set rules for the lawful, fair and transparent use of personal data.

The commission assured Nigerians and legal residents that it would continue to protect identity information and improve the security of its systems.

It added that it would also work with relevant security agencies to strengthen its systems and provide the public with accurate information in order to reduce the spread of misinformation about the national identity database.