You need your NIN for a lot of important things these days, from opening a bank account to registering for school. But how do you actually check what your NIN is or apply for one if you don’t have it yet? Don’t worry, it’s easier than you might think.

In just a few simple steps, you’ll have your NIN in hand and ready to provide whenever you need it. No more scrambling to track it down from old documents or calling up your parents in a panic. Read on to find out exactly what you need to do to get your NIN number sorted once and for all.

What Is a National Identification Number (NIN)?

A National Identification Number or NIN is a unique 11-digit number issued to all Nigerian citizens and legal residents that serves as a means of identification. Your NIN is linked to your biometric and demographic data, allowing you to prove your identity when accessing government services, education, or conducting business.

Once enrolled, your NIN will be printed on your National e-ID card. This card can be used to verify your identity for employment, obtaining a driver’s license, land, passport application, banking, and more. Safeguard your NIN and e-ID card, as they contain sensitive personal information.

Having a NIN provides many benefits for both individuals and the country as a whole. For you, it makes accessing critical services more efficient while reducing the need to provide the same information to multiple organizations. For Nigeria, a comprehensive national Identification system enhances security, aids governance, and supports the planning and implementation of important programs and policies.

Who is Eligible to Apply for NIN?

The following are eligible for NIN Enrolment. All Nigerian citizens.

Every citizen and legal resident of Nigeria.
All individuals from age zero (birth) and above.

Why do You Need a National Identification Number (NIN)?

To fully function in Nigeria, you need a National Identification Number (NIN).

Here are a few reasons why:

You need a NIN to register a phone number. Nigeria now requires a NIN to activate a new SIM card or replace an existing one.
A NIN is needed to open a bank account. Most banks in Nigeria won’t let you open an account without providing your NIN.
You can’t get a driver’s license or international passport without a NIN. It’s required for these and other government-issued IDs.
A NIN helps prevent identity theft and fraud. By verifying people’s identities, NINs make it harder for criminals to impersonate others.
NIN improves access to government services. Once enrolled, your NIN allows you to more easily use services like healthcare, insurance, taxes, voting, and more.
Employers often ask for NINs. Many companies in Nigeria request a job applicant’s NIN during the hiring process.

NIN data helps policymakers. Aggregate NIN data gives the government insights into the population to help better allocate resources and plan programs.

In short, a National Identification Number has become essential for navigating life in Nigeria. While the enrollment process can be tedious sometimes, the benefits of having a NIN make it well worth your time.

How to Get your NIN Number

Checking your NIN (National Identification Number) is important to verify your identity for various purposes. Here’s how to find your NIN:

Check Your ID Card

The easiest way to find your NIN is to check your National ID card. Your NIN is printed on the upper left corner of the second row. It will contain 11 digits, like 11 22 33 44 55 66.

If you don’t have your ID card handy, don’t worry. There are a couple of other ways to find your NIN. You can:

Check with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). Visit their office with a valid ID to request your NIN printout.
Visit the NIMC website.
Dial *346# on your mobile device.

The NIN Slip can be re-issued in the case of Loss, Damage, Theft, or Change/Modification of Record. Your NIN is an important part of your legal identity in Nigeria. Be sure to keep it in a safe place along with copies of your supporting documents. And remember, never share your NIN with anyone except legitimate government agencies and financial institutions when required. Protecting your NIN will help prevent identity theft and fraud.

How to Get your NIN Number via USSD

To check your NIN via USSD, follow these simple steps:

Dial *346# on your phone

This will connect you to the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) USSD service.

Select ‘NIN Retrieval’

Select ‘NIN Retrieval’ by typing 1. Ensure it is from the same phone number you enrolled with for your NIN. This option will display your NIN, full name, date of birth, gender, and nationality.

Acknowledge the Service Charge

When you select the “NIN Retrieval” option, your network provider will notify you of a minor service fee, usually N20. This cost is levied in order to handle your NIN recovery request. It is critical to be aware of this cost ahead of time. Press ‘1’ to begin the retrieval process and accept the service cost. This action indicates your agreement to the fee for the service. Make sure you have enough money in your account to cover this cost.

Display of your NIN

Your NIN will be displayed on the screen of your phone after you confirm the service charge. This number is unique to you and is stored in a national database. Make a secure record of it.

The USSD service provides a quick and convenient way to verify your National Identification Number on the go without having to visit a NIMC office. Be sure to keep your NIN details in a safe place in case you need to reference them again in the future.

Documents Required for NIN Enrolment

Walk into the nearest NIMC Enrolment Centre with your BVN or any of the following required Original and Valid supporting documents:

Old National ID Card
Driver’s License
Voter’s card (Temporary or Permanent)
Nigerian International passport
Certificate of Origin
Attestation letter from a prominent ruler in your community
Birth certificate
Declaration of age
Attestation letter from religious/traditional leader
NHIS ID card
Government staff ID card
Registered/recognized private organization staff ID card
School ID Card (private/public)
Tax Clearance certificate
Valid immigration documents
Nigerian Commission for Refugees (NCFR) Refugee Certificate
Refugee ID card
Refugee Factsheet

How to Apply for NIN in Nigeria

To apply for your NIN in Nigeria, follow these simple steps:

Visit the NIMC website to access the Pre-Enrolment Portal: https://penrol.nimc.gov.ng and complete the online Enrolment Form.
After filling out the Enrolment Form online, print out a summary sheet with a 2D Barcode and head to any NIMC Enrolment Centre.
Ensure to verify and confirm the enrolment data on the system.
Capture your headshot photograph, fingerprints and signature.
Scan each of your supporting documents.
After that, the applicant’s enrolment will be acknowledged, and two slips will be generated and given to the applicant. A Transaction Slip and a NIN Slip this means you have completed your enrolment.

Following these steps will ensure you are successfully enrolled to receive your National Identification Number. Your NIN is an important form of identification in Nigeria, so be sure to keep it in a safe place and use it to access key services.

How to Know If Your NIN Card Is Ready

Visit the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) website at www.nimc.gov.ng to see if your National Identification Number (NIN) card is ready for pickup.

Scroll down to the ‘e-ID Card Status Portal’ on the homepage to discover if your card is ready and available at the activation centre.

Frequently Asked Questions About NINs

The National Identification Number NIN is an important part of your legal identity in Nigeria. Here are some common questions about NIN:

How do I find my NIN?

If you’ve already enrolled, you should have received your NIN on the enrollment slip given to you. You can also check on the NIMC website with your phone number or email. If you can’t find your NIN, you’ll need to visit an enrolment centre to retrieve it.

I lost my NIN slip. How do I get a new one?

Don’t worry; your NIN is tied to your biometric and demographic data, not just the physical slip. You can request a replacement NIN slip by visiting an enrolment center or visiting the NIMC website. Be prepared to verify your identity and pay a small replacement fee.

Do I need a NIN for a new passport application?

Yes, providing your NIN is required for all new passport applications in Nigeria. Your NIN helps verify your Nigerian citizenship and identity. If you don’t yet have a NIN, you’ll need to enroll to obtain one before applying for a new passport.

Can I change or correct my NIN information?

If your personal information, like your name, date of birth, or address, changes, you should update your NIN records as soon as possible. Visit an enrollment center with documents updating your new information, or visit their website. NIN updates are important to avoid issues using your NIN for identification or fraud prevention.

Conclusion

And there you have it, a few simple steps to get your NIN quickly and easily. You don’t have to jump through endless hoops or deal with excess bureaucracy. In just a few clicks, you’ll have your number in hand and be ready to go. Now, you can officially check that task off your list and move on to bigger and better things.