NIMC Dismisses Viral Claim Of NIN Database Breach

The National Identity Management Commission has dismissed reports alleging that Nigeria’s National Identification Number database has been compromised.

The Commission described the claim as false, saying the video circulating on social media was an old report from 2024 that had already been debunked.

In a statement issued by its Head of Corporate Communications, Kayode Adegoke, and shared on its official X handle on Thursday, NIMC assured Nigerians that the National Identity Database remained secure.

“The Commission National Identity Database (NIDB) has not been breached or compromised at any point,” it said.

NIMC said it operates a “robust, multi-layered security infrastructure” to safeguard the personal information of registered citizens and legal residents, in accordance with international best practices.

The Commission expressed concern over the circulation of unverified information, warning that such claims could mislead members of the public and create unnecessary panic.

“NIMC urges the public to disregard the video’s content and obtain information about the National Identity Management System only from NIMC’s official channels,” the statement said.

The Commission also drew attention to its recently introduced NIN Authentication, known as NINAuth, which it described as a suite of web, API and mobile verification services aimed at improving data security and privacy.

According to NIMC, the system requires the explicit consent of NIN holders before their information can be shared for Know Your Customer processes or other verification purposes.

“With NINAuth, individuals can securely verify their identity for services such as SIM registration, immigration and passport processing, tax filings, and financial transactions—without unnecessarily exposing their raw NIN or personal data,” the Commission said.

NIMC said the initiative formed part of its broader efforts to ensure compliance with the NIMC Act 2026 and the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, which provide frameworks for the fair, lawful and transparent processing of personal data.

The commission reiterated its commitment to protecting the identity information of Nigerians and legal residents, adding that it would continue to collaborate with relevant security agencies to strengthen its systems and counter misinformation.

It urged members of the public to rely on verified information from its official communication channels when seeking updates on the National Identity Management System.