NIMC Plans to Introduce NIN Registration App for Immigrants in 2024

Nimc, the National Identity Management Commission, is planning to introduce a new NIN registration app specifically for immigrants. This app aims to simplify and streamline the registration process, making it more convenient for individuals living abroad. 

The Director-General of NIMC, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, expressed this intention during a strategic meeting with the Chairman and CEO of NIDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa. They discussed the implementation of easy-to-use self-service software that would allow Nigerians abroad to enroll for their National Identification Number (NIN). 

The app is scheduled to be launched in February 2024. This initiative is part of NIMC’s customer-centric strategy, aiming to provide efficient service to Nigerians overseas and resolve any issues within 24 hours through a dedicated Diaspora Focal Point Desk. It’s exciting to see how this new app will improve service delivery and the integration of NIN with international passports for Nigerians abroad. 

This strategic alliance represents a significant milestone in utilizing technology to enhance access to crucial identification services for Diaspora Nigerians. 

Integrating the National Identification Number (NIN) with international passports brings several benefits. First, it simplifies the identification process for Nigerians abroad by having both the NIN and passport information linked together. This integration can enhance security measures and help prevent identity fraud. 

Advantages of Integration of NIN and International Passports

Additionally, it provides a more efficient way for individuals to access various services and facilities, such as banking, healthcare, and government-related processes. Combining the NIN with international passports creates a unified identification system that promotes ease of use and convenience for Nigerians living outside the country.

The Nigerian Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has been diligently populating the National Identification Number (NIN) database since its launch. According to reports, the database currently contains 104.16 million Nigerians, which accounts for approximately half of the nation’s population.

Despite various efforts and attempts to compel Nigerians to register for NIN numbers, the results have not been as successful as anticipated. These efforts include making the NIN number a requirement for essential national documents such as the Nigerian passport. Additionally, with mobile connectivity, applicants for national exams like WAEC and JAMB now need to provide their NINs.

In an effort to strengthen the linkage between banking services and NINs, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has mandated banks to electronically revalidate and link customers’ Bank Verification Numbers (BVN) with their NINs by January 31, 2024.

Nimc Bans Front-End Partners From Enrolling New Candidates

However, the NIMC has recently imposed a ban on Front-End Partners (FEPs) from enrolling candidates in order to address issues related to enrollment integrity and payment to these agents. The suspension serves as part of a revalidation effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the identity database, rather than targeting a specific group.

The Director-General of NIMC, Coker-Odusote, emphasized that this interim halt will allow the commission to thoroughly assess FEP claims regarding data security compliance. The stepwise revalidation exercise aims to address inherited debts and resolve problematic invoices and claims from previous administrations.

Furthermore, he questioned why this software, which aims to simplify the enrollment process for Nigerians abroad, was not initially offered to Nigerians within the country instead of relying on third-party agents who often profited at the expense of the masses.