Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has cautioned Nigerians against disclosing or selling their National Identification Number (NIN) data, warning that it will not be liable for any misuse resulting from individuals voluntarily sharing their personal information.
This follows a recent alarm raised by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which exposed a growing scheme where individuals are paid between N1,500 and N2,000 to surrender their personal details, which are then resold to some Fintech institutions for about N5,000.
Describing the trend as a matter of “serious security concern” with “grave consequences on the NIN holders,” the Commission stressed that citizens have been repeatedly warned not to share their personal data with unauthorized individuals or organizations.
“The NIMC wishes to state clearly that it will not be held responsible for any personal information shared by an individual directly or by proxy for the purpose of financial gain or inducement,” the Commission said in a press statement signed by its Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Kayode Adegoke on Sunday.
NIMC further advised service providers to ensure that all NINs presented for access to services are properly verified.
To enhance the protection and control of personal data, Nigerians were also urged to download the NINAuth App via the Apple iOS or Google Play Store.
The app, according to the statement, offers users “the power to control personal information on the NIN” along with additional security benefits.
