The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has dismissed as false and unfounded a viral social media video alleging that Nigeria’s National Identification Number (NIN) database has been breached.
In a statement issued by its Head of Corporate Communications, the Commission said the video contains a recycled claim that was first reported in 2024 and subsequently disclaimed by NIMC.
NIMC said its National Identity Database (NIDB) has not been breached or compromised at any time, stressing that it operates a robust, multi layered security infrastructure to safeguard the personal information of registered citizens and legal residents in line with international best practices.
The Commission expressed concern over the circulation of what it described as unverified claims, warning that such reports could mislead the public and cause unnecessary panic.
It urged Nigerians and legal residents to disregard the video and rely on NIMC’s official channels for information concerning the National Identity Management System.
NIMC also highlighted its recently launched NIN Authentication platform, NINAuth, which it described as a suite of web, API and mobile verification services designed to strengthen data security, protect privacy and simplify access to government services.
According to the Commission, NINAuth serves as its official channel for integration with its backend infrastructure, providing an additional layer of protection while giving individuals greater control over the use of their personal information.
The platform requires the explicit consent of NIN holders before their data can be shared for Know Your Customer (KYC) processes or other verification purposes.
NIMC said NINAuth enables individuals to verify their identities for services including SIM registration, immigration and passport processing, tax filings and financial transactions without unnecessarily exposing their raw NIN or other personal information.
The Commission said the initiative reflects its compliance with the NIMC Act, 2026, and the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, which provides for the fair, lawful and transparent handling of personal data.
NIMC reiterated its commitment to protecting the identity information of Nigerians and legal residents and said it would continue working with relevant security and government agencies to strengthen its systems and public engagement against misinformation.
