The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has arrested several suspected operators of illegal National Identification Number (NIN) enrolment centres in Gwagwalada, Abuja, and other locations, following an enforcement operation targeting unauthorised identity registration, illegal modification of personal information and alleged extortion of applicants.
The operation, conducted by the commission’s Inspectorate Compliance and Enforcement Unit (ICEU), also resulted in the seizure of equipment allegedly used by the operators to carry out unauthorised NIN enrolment and related activities.
NIMC disclosed the development in a statement issued by its Head of Corporate Communications, Kayode Adegoke, on Monday, November 2, 2026, describing the operation as part of its intensified efforts to eliminate illegal enrolment activities and unethical practices threatening the integrity of Nigeria’s National Identity Management System.
The commission expressed concern over the activities of unauthorised operators, warning that individuals who patronise unapproved centres risk exposing their personal information to potential compromise, inaccurate identity records and other complications.
According to NIMC, many of the difficulties experienced by Nigerians with their National Identification Numbers arise from attempts to bypass established enrolment procedures and obtain identity management services through unofficial channels.
The commission stressed that initial NIN enrolment is strictly restricted to its officially approved centres, while requests for modification of personal information must be processed through its authorised self-service platform.
It further warned Nigerians against entrusting sensitive personal information to individuals and facilities operating outside its approved framework, particularly amid growing concerns over the security of personal data and the increasing importance of digital identity verification in the country.
The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NIMC, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, reiterated the commission’s zero-tolerance position on extortion and unethical conduct, assuring Nigerians and legal residents that the agency remained committed to providing accessible, seamless and transparent enrolment services.
The commission also urged existing NIN holders to download the NINAuth application, available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, to access additional security features, protect their identity information and print their NIN slips.
NIMC advised applicants and existing NIN holders to verify enrolment centres and related services through its official communication channels rather than relying on unauthorised intermediaries.
It also provided a toll-free number, 0800 0616 462, for enquiries and complaints.
The latest crackdown comes amid the growing importance of the NIN as a critical identification requirement for accessing financial services, telecommunications and several government-related services, raising fresh concerns about the potential consequences of unauthorised access to Nigeria’s national identity database.