The National Identity Management Commission has warned Nigerians against the unauthorised printing of National Identification Number cards by individuals, cyber cafés, and private organisations.
In a statement on Monday, NIMC said only its official General Multi-Purpose Card is recognised by law, and anyone caught producing or using fake NIN cards will face legal action.
The statement, signed by NIMC’s Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Kayode Adegoke, described the illegal printing of NIN cards as a violation of the NIMC Act No. 23, 2007.
“The Commission has not authorized any individual or organization to print any NIN card as a replacement for the official NIMC General Multi-Purpose Card. This act is illegal and punishable under the law,” the statement read.
NIMC also warned Nigerians against using such unauthorised cards, stressing that only the official NIN slip should be presented for identification.
“The so-called NIN card being printed by some cyber cafés and individuals is not authorised by NIMC. On no account should it be presented as a means of identification,” the commission added.
To stop the fraudulent practice, NIMC disclosed that security agencies have been directed to clamp down on those involved in illegal NIN card printing.
“Anyone caught printing, selling, or issuing fake NIN cards will be made to face the full wrath of the law,” Adegoke warned.
As part of efforts to provide a physical means of identification, NIMC said it is finalising plans to launch an upgraded General Multi-Purpose Card (GMPC).
The new card, which will also function as a payment card, will be powered by AfriGO, a local payment platform.
NIMC urged Nigerians to report illegal NIN card printing and seek clarifications through its official communication channels.
“For any inquiries, the public can reach NIMC via 07002255646, 0815505388, or email nimccustomercare@nimc.gov.ng and ieu@nimc.gov.ng. We are also available on all social media platforms,” the commission stated.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the security of Nigeria’s national identity system and preventing fraud.
