In a move aimed at curbing unauthorised activities and ensuring the integrity of the National Identity Number (NIN) system, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued a directive barring registration agents and other unauthorised entities from printing NIN cards.
NIMC raised concerns over the illegal printing of unauthorised NIN cards by certain individuals, cybercafés, and organisations.
The commission said these entities are reportedly charging unsuspecting citizens exorbitant fees for the unauthorised cards.
It clarified that it has not granted any organization or individual permission to print NIN cards as a replacement for the official General Multi-Purpose Card (GMPC), while emphasizing that this practice violates the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007.
“The public is therefore advised to refrain from printing or accepting these unauthorised NIN cards, as they are not recognised by NIMC and should not be used as a means of identification. Security agencies have been alerted and instructed to apprehend those engaged in this illegal activity, with offenders facing legal consequences,” NIMC stated.
NIMC reaffirmed that the NIN slip remains the only legally recognised document for identification and must be verified when presented for accessing services.
To address public demand, the Commission announced plans to launch an improved GMPC, which will serve as both a physical identification card and a payment card. This new multifunctional card will be powered by AfriGO, a local payment platform.
The NIMC, established by the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, is responsible for managing the National Identity Database, assigning NINs, and issuing General Multi-Purpose Cards (GMPCs) to citizens and residents.
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