The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has dismissed viral social media claims of a breach of the National Identification Number (NIN) database, describing them as false and unfounded.
In a press release signed by its Head of Corporate Communications, Kayode Adegoke, on September 23, 2026, the Commission said the claim was a recycled news story from 2024 that it had previously disclaimed.
NIMC maintained that the National Identity Database had never been breached or compromised, assuring Nigerians and legal residents that their personal information was protected by robust, multi-layered security systems.
The Commission also highlighted its recently launched NIN Authentication (NINAuth) platform, which supports secure identity verification through web, API and mobile services. It said the platform requires the explicit consent of NIN holders before their information can be shared for Know Your Customer (KYC) processes and other verification purposes.
According to NIMC, the initiative aligns with the NIMC Act 2026 and the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, which provide for the fair, lawful and transparent handling of personal data.
The Commission urged the public to disregard unverified reports and obtain information through its official channels, adding that it would continue to work with security agencies to strengthen its systems and combat misinformation.
It advised members of the public with concerns about their NIN or personal data to contact it through its official website, toll-free line 0800 0800616462 or the email addresses ieu@nimc.gov.ng and actu@nimc.gov.ng.
