How to Become NIN Registration Agent

The National Identification Number has grown to become an essential part of living in Nigeria, from the opening of bank accounts to the purchase of SIM cards, to passport applications. However, not everyone knows how to get it, which is why there is an increasing demand for NIN Registration Agents.

These agents help Nigerians get registered for their NIN and contribute to making it easier and more accessible. If you are interested in becoming a NIN Registration Agent, this is the right track.

In this article, we will take you through all you need to know about How to become a NIMC Agent.

Who is NIMC Agent?

As an agent of NIMC, your role is to capture the data and biometrics of Nigerians who want to get their National Identification Number-NIN and the National Identity Card and forward such details to NIMC database.

What does NIN entail?

NIN is an 11-number random set of non-intelligible numbers assigned to a person upon successful enrolment into the National Identity Database, and is issued in the form of a “NIN slip”. No two persons can have the same NIN. Once it has been assigned to an individual, it can never be re-assigned, given, or used by another person.

How much is a NIN license?

It costs a little to get a license, but the standard fee is ₦50,000 which is set by the National Identity Management Commission for private organizations and individuals. However, that will be just the license registration fee, and other costs may apply depending on your setup.

You will have to consider the cost of equipment such as a laptop, biometric scanner, printer, and internet service. These are vital in efficiently carrying out registration exercises.

Besides that, some training is needed to get acquainted with the NIN registration system, and this might involve a little fee too. Once you pay these fees and undergo such training, you’ll be issued a license, which will grant you the right to legally operate as a NIN Registration Agent.

Which agency is responsible for NIN?

The National Identity Management Commission is the agency that oversees the registration and management of NIN in Nigeria. It was established by the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, which charged the commission to establish, operate, and manage the National Identity Database.

They are the ones who set the standards, provide guidelines, and approve licenses for individuals and organizations that want to become NIN Registration Agents.

NIMC’s role is not just limited to issuing NINs; they also ensure that the data collected during registration is secure and properly managed.

They work closely with other government agencies like the Nigerian Immigration Service, the Federal Road Safety Corps, and even banks to integrate the NIN into various identification processes. As a prospective NIN Registration Agent, you’ll be working under their supervision and following their regulations.

How many years does NIN expire?

The NIN itself does not expire. That is, your NIN will remain valid for a lifetime. However, the physical slip or card that comes with NIN may need updating. As an example, if there are changes in personal details, name, and address, the record should be updated in NIMC.

While the NIN does not expire, NIMC encourages citizens to update their records regularly. For those who have upgraded to the National e-ID Card, the card is valid for five years.

After this period, it needs to be renewed; however, the NIN linked to it remains the same and does not require renewal. This is an important differentiation, as it separates the identity number from the physical card carrying the number.

What is the NIN Agent Code?

The NIN Agent Code is a number that NIN Registration Agents are given by the National Identity Management Commission. This code is critical as it grants NIMC the ability to have records of activities of agents within their system.

Each licensed agent or organization to undertake the NIN registration process is assigned what is referred to as the Agent Code, serving as their formal identifier in the NIMC database.

This code ensures accountability and enables NIMC to control the registration process better. Without it, an agent is not considered legal to operate and access to the NIMC registration platform.

How Can I Get Agent Code for NIN?

To be assigned a NIN Agent Code, one has to apply to the Commission for accreditation as a NIN Registration Agent. Here is a step-by-step procedure on how to get your Agent Code: 

1. Submit an Application to NIMC

The first step is to send a formal letter of intent to NIMC. This letter, addressed to the agency, should express your intention of becoming a NIN registration agent. You may do this as an individual or on behalf of any organization.

2. Agent Registration Process

NIMC will give you an application form. The form captures information about you or your organization, such as business name, address, and the services you would want to offer.

3. Pay for the Registration

The registration fee is normally ₦50,000, as earlier stated, but there may be other fees that could be required preparatory to training or equipment. Ensure you get the receipt for the payment.

4. Get Trained

The agency necessitates training from the accredited agent on the usage of its registration system; it allows the agent to understand how to operate both the equipment and software related to registration.

5. License and Agent Code

When one has completed the entire process and fulfilled the conditions required, NIMC grants a license, complete with an Agent Code that would permit one officially to begin registering people in its system for NINs.

How Much Does It Cost to Print a NIN Slip?

It depends on the type of slip you want; as it were, there are two kinds of NIN slips:

1. Plain/Black and White NIN Slip

This slip is usually free, printed at the point of registration or after that, at no extra cost to the applicant. However, if your first copy gets lost and you need a reprint, most NIN Registration Agents can reissue it, mostly between ₦500 to ₦1,000 depending on the location.

2. Premium NIN Slip (Plastic Card-like Format)

This is a more durable, colored version of the NIN slip. The premium slip is laminated and looks similar to an ATM card. Printing this type of slip costs around ₦1,000 to ₦2,000, depending on the agent or center where it is printed. Some centers may charge extra for lamination.

Note that the printing of the basic slip as it regards NIN during registration is free, but one should know the cost as stipulated by agents or third-party centers for additional copies or upgraded slips.

How to Become NIN Registration Agent

It is not a big deal to become a NIN Registration Agent; all one needs to do is follow through the steps provided by the National Identity Management Commission. A NIN Registration Agent helps people get enrolled for their National Identification Numbers, hence helping to build up a very critical national database. Here’s how you can get started:

1. Understand the Requirements

NIMC allows both individuals and organizations to become NIN Registration Agents. The first step is ensuring you meet the basic requirements: you must have a registered business name if applying as an organization; you need access to a physical location where registrations can take place; you must have the necessary equipment, including a laptop, biometric scanner, webcam, printer, and internet access.

2. Submit Your Application

Write a formal letter of expression of interest to become an agent to NIMC. Attach all necessary documents, such as:

• CAC certificate for business registered.
• Identification documents, National ID card, International Passport, or Driver’s License.
• Proof of location of the business, utility bills, or lease agreements.

3. NIMC’s Training Program

After your application, NIMC will invite you to a training session. The training is to train you on how to use their registration software, handle biometric data, and follow NIMC’s data security standards.

4. Pay the Registration Fee

The licensing fee is ₦50,000. This is the cost of your license as a NIN Registration Agent. Keep the receipt for your record.

5. Get Your License and Agent Code

After the training and fulfilling other requirements, NIMC will license you and provide your Agent Code. A license is thus given to you, permitting you to start registering people for their NIN.

Requirements to be a NIN Agent

You have to complete all the documentation processes to get access to the agent portal of NIMC.  The contracts are not simply given out. First of all, you will have to submit an EOI form.

Here are the required documents to become NIN registration agent:

1. Evidence of registration or incorporation with the Corporate Affairs Commission.

2. Evidence of Tax Clearance for the last three years.

3. Tax Identification Number

4. Evidence of NIN registration with NIMC by Company Directors who are Nigerians

5. Company three years Audited Account

6. Evidence of Compliance Certificate with Industrial Training Fund ITF

7. Current PENCOM Compliance Certificate

8. Sworn affidavit that Directors have not been involved or convicted of any fraudulent activity

9. An affidavit sworn to the effect that your Company is not a continuation of a hitherto Tax defaulting Company

10. Evidence of Financial Capability and Banking Support.

11. Current Evidence of Registration on the National Database of Contractors, Consultants and Service Providers of the Bureau for Public Procurement (BPP)

12. Evidence of Successful Conduct of Similar Projects in the past, not later than five (5) years from date of bidding

13. Accompanying sworn affidavit of disclosure; to disclose clearly whether any of the officers (or related persons) of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) or the Bureau for Public Procurement (BPP) is a former or present Director of the company

14. NIMC biometric scanning machine after other requirements are met

How Do I Get My NIN License?

Getting your NIN license involves several key steps, which you must complete through the NIMC. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Application Submission

Start by applying to NIMC either online or at their physical office. Include all necessary documents and ensure your application is complete to avoid delays.

2. Equipment and Office Setup

NIMC requires agents to have specific tools for NIN registration, such as:

• Laptop or Desktop Computer: For running the NIMC registration software.
• Biometric Scanner: To capture fingerprints.
• Webcam: For capturing applicants’ photos.
• Printer: For printing NIN slips.
• Stable Internet Connection: For uploading data to NIMC’s database.

3. Payment of Licensing Fee

Once your application is reviewed, you’ll be asked to pay the licensing fee of ₦50,000. Payments can typically be made through NIMC’s approved channels, such as designated bank accounts or online payment portals.

4. Training Attendance

After making the payment, NIMC will call you for training. Training is very important to understand how the system of registration works and how to comply with the standards set by NIMC.

5. License Issuance

After all the above steps, NIMC will issue your license, and you will be given your Agent Code. The agent code is your identifier and is used to access the NIMC system for registrations.

FAQs

Conclusion

The business opportunity that comes with becoming a NIN Registration Agent is also another avenue to serve one’s community. As the NIN becomes increasingly required for more daily transactions, many more people will require assistance in registering for it.

By following the steps provided by NIMC, making the necessary payment of fees, and putting in proper equipment, one can also start offering this essential service. Remember, this is a business that also requires integrity and attention to detail since you’ll be handling sensitive personal information.

References

• infomediang.com/become nimc agent
• nimc.gov.ng/vendor requirements

nairaland.com/how to become a nin registration agent