The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has categorically dismissed recent allegations claiming a breach of Nigeria’s National Identification Number (NIN) database, describing the circulating rumors as “false and unfounded.”
The controversy was sparked by a viral video on social media, which alleged that sensitive NIN and Bank Verification Number (BVN) details could be illicitly purchased for as little as N100. The footage further claimed that rogue NIMC officials in Lagos were actively selling individuals’ personal information for N1,000 outside the commission’s offices.
In a swift statement issued on Thursday, the commission moved to quash the panic, clarifying that the allegations were merely recycled from a debunked 2024 report that the agency had previously addressed.
“The Commission wishes to state, categorically, that this claim is false and unfounded,” the NIMC statement read. “The Commission’s National Identity Database (NIDB) has not been breached or compromised at any point.”
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To reassure the public, the agency emphasized its adherence to international best practices, noting that it maintains a “robust, multi-layered security infrastructure” designed to safeguard the personal data of all registered citizens and legal residents. The commission expressed deep concern over the circulation of such unverified claims, warning that they serve only to mislead the public and incite unnecessary anxiety.
“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 advised.
Beyond mere reassurance, the NIMC highlighted proactive measures it has taken to fortify data privacy, specifically pointing to the recent launch of NIN Authentication (NINAuth). This web, API, and mobile verification service is designed to strengthen data security by ensuring that a NIN holder’s explicit consent is mandatory before their data can be shared for Know Your Customer (KYC) processes or any other third-party verification.
As Nigeria’s digital economy continues to expand, the integrity of its foundational identity systems remains paramount. The NIMC’s decisive response serves as a timely reminder that while the threat of digital misinformation is persistent, the defense of national data infrastructure is both active and uncompromising. For now, the commission’s message to the public is clear: trust the official channels, and disregard the noise of unfounded digital rumors.
Promise Idoko is Junior Reporter working with moderncrux He covers global politics and international affairs. Based in Nigeria,
