The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) in a bid to protect the integrity of the National Identity Number (NIN) system, has prohibited registration agents, cybercafés, and other unauthorized entities from printing NIN cards.
The commission expressed concern over the illegal printing of NIN cards by individuals, cybercafés, and organizations, highlighting that these unauthorized entities are charging unsuspecting citizens exorbitant fees for fraudulent cards.
Clarifying its stance, NIMC stated that it has not granted any organization or individual the authority to print NIN cards as substitutes for the official General Multi-Purpose Card (GMPC). It emphasized that such activities violate the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007.
“The public is therefore advised to refrain from printing or accepting these unauthorized NIN cards, as they are not recognized by NIMC and should not be used as a means of identification. Security agencies have been alerted and instructed to apprehend those engaged in this illegal activity, with offenders facing legal consequences,” the commission stated.
NIMC reaffirmed that the NIN slip remains the only legally recognized document for identification and must be verified when presented for accessing services.
To address public demand, the commission announced plans to introduce an improved GMPC, which will function as both an identification and payment card. This new multifunctional card will be powered by AfriGO, a local payment platform.
Established under the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, the commission is responsible for managing the National Identity Database, assigning NINs, and issuing GMPCs to citizens and residents.
