NIMC Makes NIN Mandatory For 2026 SSCE Registration

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued a final advisory to parents and guardians, reiterating that possession of a National Identification Number (NIN) was mandatory for all candidates participating in the 2026 Senior Secondary Certificate Examinations (SSCE).

The commission said the directive was aimed at ensuring a seamless registration process and preventing last-minute challenges during the examination exercise. The advisory, posted on NIMC’s official X handle on Friday, stressed that the NIN has evolved from an optional requirement to a “critical academic tool” needed for school registrations, examinations, scholarship applications, and access to other government-linked services.

“Dear Nigerian parent, your child needs an NIN. NIN is now important for school registrations, exams, scholarships, and many other government benefits,” the commission stated.

To ease access and reduce the burden of long-distance travel, NIMC disclosed that it has decentralised its enrolment operations through its newly launched Ward Enrolment Strategy. Under the initiative, registration centres have been brought closer to communities to ensure students are captured at the grassroots ahead of examination registration deadlines.

“Ward enrolment is happening close to you. Kindly locate the nearest Ward Enrolment Centre and get started,” the advisory urged.

The commission also announced the deployment of digital and telephone support channels to help parents and guardians easily locate the nearest enrolment centre. This, it said, aligns with its Assured Identity mandate, which seeks to provide every Nigerian child with a unique and secure digital identity.

“To locate the closest Ward Enrolment Centre, visit our website or call the toll-free line displayed. NIMC is committed to providing assured identity,” the commission added.

According to NIMC’s guidelines for the 2026 examination cycle, minors—defined as children below the age of 16—must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who already has a valid NIN. Parents are also advised to present original birth certificates or statutory declarations of age during enrolment.

The commission further clarified that NIN registration remains free of charge at all authorised centres, warning parents and guardians to avoid unauthorised agents who may attempt to extort money.