The Federal Government has announced plans to take legal action against individuals and organisations involved in unauthorised printing of National Identification Number (NIN) cards.
In a statement released on Monday, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) raises concerns over the proliferation of fake NIN cards being illegally produced and sold by cyber cafés and other unauthorised entities.
The agency warned that unsuspecting Nigerians were being charged exorbitant fees for these fraudulent services.
Describing the act as a violation of the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, the commission cautioned the public against using or accepting such unauthorized cards as valid identification.
“The so-called NIN card is not issued or recognised by NIMC and should not be presented as an official means of identification,” said NIMC spokesperson Kayode Adegoke.
“Security agencies have been directed to identify and apprehend those involved in this illegal activity.” NIMC reiterated that the NIN slip remains the only valid proof of identity and must be verified before use.
Meanwhile, the commission announced that as of February 28, 2025, the number of Nigerians enrolled in the NIN database had reached 117.3 million.
To address growing demand for a physical identity card, NIMC revealed plans to introduce an enhanced General Multi-Purpose Card (GMPC).
The new card, powered by AfriGO—a local payment platform—will function as both an identity and payment card.
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