THE National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has dismissed claims that its database containing Nigerians’ National Identification Numbers (NIN) was hacked or compromised.
The denial followed the circulation of a video on social media alleging that NIN and Bank Verification Number (BVN) information could be obtained for as little as N100.
The video further alleged that NIMC officials in Lagos were selling people’s NIN details for N1,000 near the commission’s office.
NIMC, however, said the allegations were false and had been recycled from claims made in 2024.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the commission said its National Identity Database had not been breached.
“The Commission wishes to state, categorically, that this claim is false and unfounded. The Commission National Identity Database (NIDB) has not been breached or compromised at any point,” it said.
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NIMC said it had deployed multiple layers of security to safeguard the personal information of citizens and legal residents registered in the national identity system.
The commission said the security measures were designed in line with international standards for protecting personal data.
It also expressed concern over the circulation of the video, saying unverified claims about the identity database could mislead Nigerians and create unnecessary panic.
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The commission advised members of the public to disregard the video and obtain information concerning the National Identity Management System only from its official platforms.
NIMC explains NIN Authentication
NIMC also highlighted NIN Authentication, or NINAuth, which it recently introduced as a verification platform aimed at improving the protection of personal information.
The service is available through web, mobile and application programming interface (API) channels.
According to NIMC, NINAuth gives NIN holders control over the sharing of their information by requiring their explicit consent before data is released for Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures or other verification purposes.
The commission said the system can be used for identity verification in areas including SIM registration, passport and immigration services, tax filings and financial transactions.
It said the platform is designed to enable verification without unnecessary exposure of a person’s raw NIN or other personal information.
NIMC said the initiative supports the requirements of the NIMC Act, 2026 and the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, on the lawful and transparent processing of personal data.
The commission added that it would continue working with security agencies and other institutions to strengthen its systems and tackle misinformation.
It urged Nigerians who have concerns about their NIN or personal data to contact the commission through its official channels.
