The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued a strong warning to Nigerians against disclosing or selling their personal data, particularly their National Identification Number (NIN), stressing that the Commission will not be held responsible for any misuse resulting from such actions.
In a statement Head, Corporate Communications National Identity Management Commission Kayode Adegoke said the warning follows a recent disclosure by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which revealed that a growing number of young Nigerians are offering as little as N1,500 to N2,000 to obtain individuals’ personal data, including their NINs, and reselling this sensitive information to fintech companies for up to N5,000.
Describing the practice as a serious national security concern, NIMC emphasized that any individual who shares their personal information for financial gain—whether directly or through a third party—does so at their own risk.
“The Commission will not be held liable for any breach or misuse of data voluntarily disclosed by individuals,” NIMC stated, reiterating earlier advisories against releasing NINs to unauthorized persons or organizations.
The Commission also reminded service providers that all NINs presented for transactions must undergo proper verification before services are rendered.
To enhance data protection and user control, NIMC encouraged Nigerians to download the official NINAuth App, available on Apple iOS and Google Play Store. The app allows users to manage access to their personal data, ensuring added security and privacy.
