The National Identification Number (NIN) is a unique identification number issued to individuals by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) in Nigeria.
It is an 11-digit number that serves as a means of identification for citizens and legal residents in Nigeria. If you want to check your NIN number or verify the NIN number of someone else, there are several steps you can follow.
In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on how to check your NIN number.
Overview of the National Identification Number (NIN)
The National Identification Number (NIN) is a mandatory requirement for all citizens and legal residents of Nigeria who are 16 years of age and above. It is issued by the NIMC, which is the government agency responsible for the management of identity information and issuance of the NIN.
The NIN is used as a means of identification for various transactions and services, including opening bank accounts, applying for passports, registering for national examinations, and accessing government services.
It is a unique 11-digit number that is randomly generated and assigned to individuals. It is made up of both numeric and alphanumeric characters and follows a specific format.
The first digit of the NIN represents the state of issuance, while the second and third digits represent the local government area. The remaining digits are randomly generated and used to uniquely identify the individual.
The NIN is printed on a plastic card known as the National Identification Card, which is issued to individuals upon successful registration with the NIMC.
See also: How To Check NIN Number On MTN
Why do you need to check your NIN number?
There are several reasons why you might need to check your NIN number or verify the NIN number of someone else. These include:
1. Personal Verification: Verifying your NIN number allows you to confirm the accuracy of the information associated with your NIN. This includes your personal details such as your name, date of birth, and other relevant information. By checking your NIN number, you can ensure that the information on record with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) is correct and up-to-date.
2. Identification for Official Transactions: NIN is a crucial identification document used for various official transactions in Nigeria. This includes activities such as opening a bank account, applying for a driver’s license, obtaining a voter’s card, registering for exams, accessing government services, and more. By checking your NIN number, you can verify that you have the correct NIN on hand when required for such transactions, ensuring smooth and accurate processing.
3. Compliance with Government Regulations: The Nigerian government has made it mandatory for citizens and legal residents to obtain and register for a NIN as part of efforts to enhance identity management and streamline government services. By checking your NIN number, you can ensure that you have a valid NIN and comply with the government’s regulations and requirements.
4. Prevention of Identity Theft and Fraud: Checking your NIN number helps in safeguarding your personal information and preventing identity theft or fraud. By verifying the accuracy of your NIN number, you can ensure that your identity is not being used by unauthorized individuals for fraudulent purposes. This can help protect you from potential financial and legal liabilities.
5. Access to NIMC Services: The NIMC provides various services to individuals who have registered for a NIN, including updates and corrections to personal information, issuance of National Identification Cards (e-ID cards), and other related services. By checking your NIN number, you can ensure that your NIN is active and valid, which is necessary for availing these services from NIMC.
How to Check NIN Number using USSD Code
To check your National Identification Number (NIN) using USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data), you can follow the steps below:
Step 1: Dial *346# using the SIM card that is registered with your NIN.
Step 2: Select option 1 (Nin Retrival)
Step 3: The message “Follow the prompts to retrieve the number. This service will cost you ₦20.00, enter 1 to proceed.” Enter 1 to proceed,
Your NIN will be displayed on your screen.
See also: How to Retrieve NIN Number without Phone Number
How to Check NIN Number on NIMC Website
Step 1: Visit the NIMC Website.
The NIMC has an official website where you can access various services, including checking your NIN number. To check your NIN number online, you need to visit the NIMC website at https://www.nimc.gov.ng/. You can use any web browser on your computer or mobile device to access the website.
Step 2: Click on the “e-ID Card Status Portal” Link.
On the NIMC website homepage, you will find various links and options. Look for the “e-ID Card Status Portal” link and click on it. This will take you to the page where you can check your NIN number.
Step 3: Fill in the Required Information.
On the e-ID Card Status Portal page, you will be required to provide some personal information to check your NIN number. The information may include your First Name, Last Name, Middle Name, Date of Birth, Phone Number, and Email Address. Make sure to enter the correct information as per your NIN registration records.
Step 4: Complete the CAPTCHA Verification.
As a security measure, the NIMC website may require you to complete a CAPTCHA verification to ensure that you are a human and not a bot. CAPTCHA is a security feature that requires you to enter the characters displayed on the screen into a designated field. This helps protect against automated attempts to access the website.
Step 5: Click on the “Check Now” Button.
After filling in the required information and completing the CAPTCHA verification, click on the “Check Now” button. The website will then process your request and retrieve your NIN number from the NIMC database.
Step 6: View and Confirm Your NIN Number.
Once your request is processed, the website will display your NIN number on the screen. Take note of the number and verify that it matches the NIN number you were issued by the NIMC. It is important to confirm the accuracy of the NIN number before using it for any official transactions.
Step 7: Print or Save a Copy of Your NIN Number.
After verifying your NIN number, you have the option to print a copy of the page or save a digital copy for your records. Having a printed or digital copy of your NIN number can be useful for future reference and for presenting proof of identification when needed.
Step 8: Contact NIMC if You Encounter Issues.
If you encounter any issues while trying to check your NIN number online, such as incorrect information or technical difficulties with the website, you can contact the NIMC for assistance. The NIMC has contact information available on their website, including phone numbers and email addresses, that you can use to reach out for help.
In conclusion, checking your NIN number in Nigeria is a simple process that can be done online through the NIMC website. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily check and confirm your NIN number, which is an important identification document for various official transactions in Nigeria.
Remember to double-check the accuracy of your NIN number and keep a printed or digital copy for future reference. If you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to contact the NIMC for assistance.
See also: How to Check my NIN Date of Birth Online
Originally posted on April 13, 2023 @ 5:54 pm