Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do you have more questions about NIN enrolment? You can email us at services@nea.com.ng
What is a NIN?
A National Identification Number (NIN), consists of 11 non- intelligible numbers randomly chosen and assigned to an individual after successful enrolment into the National Identity Database (NIDB).
Your NIN is provided in the form of a ‘NIN Slip’ on presentation of a ‘Transaction Slip’
Once a NIN is assigned to an individual, it can never be reassigned, given, or used by another person – that makes it unique in nature.
In the case of the demise of an individual, his/her NIN is retired on presentation of a death certificate to the National Identity Management Commission and the individual’s death is established.
The NIN is used to tie all records about an individual to the National Database and is also used to establish or verify his/her identity.
All citizens and legal residents in Nigeria, from age zero (birth) and above are eligible to enrol for a NINs.
For more information on NIN please visit; https://www.nimc.gov.ng/about-nin/
- How do I enrol for NIN?
NIN Enrolment is referred to as’ Biometric Enrolment’, this is because it consists of the recording of an individual’s demographic data and capture of the ten (10) fingerprints, head-to-shoulder facial picture and digital signature, which are all used to cross-check existing data in the National Identity Database to confirm that there are no duplicates from a previous entry.
- Where can I go to get my biometrics captured?
You can have your biometrics captured by booking an appointment to visit a Data Capture Enrolment Centre at a time convenient for you via the nea.com.ng website.
On the day of your appointment you will need to bring with you valid and original copies of all required documents. (See below question 13)
- Do you keep my original documents?
No, we do not keep the originals of your supporting documents. On the day you visit us your documents will only be scanned, and returned. Please ensure you take all of your original documents away with you.
- How long will it take to enrol on the day?
You should expect to spend at least 10 to 15 minutes on the day. Your documents will be reviewed, scanned and your biometrics captured.
- Does my child/minor need to enrol for a NIN?
Yes, all Nigerian citizens including children must enrol for the National Identification Number (NIN).
Please note that for enrolment of a child there are additional requirements:
- You MUST provide the Parent/Guardian’s National Identification Number (NIN) Slip (father, mother or guardian’s NIN).
- Supporting documents and evidence of proof as the Guardian to the minor (if Guardian’s NIN is used). I.e. Registered Birth Certificate/ Statutory Age Declaration.
- All minors MUST be accompanied by at least one of the parents or a Guardian.
Children under the age of 16 are only issued with a NIN at the time of enrolment. A child is not required to provide their biometrics until the age of 16.
- Is it free?
No, for example for UK enrolment there is a one off payment of $50 (adults) and $40 (Children below 16), payable exclusive of jurisdictional taxation.
Further information on fees can be found here; NIMC Diaspora NIN Enrolment Services Fees
Unlike a passport your NIN is for life, it cannot expire and you will only need to enrol once.
- Will I also receive a physical Photo ID Card?
No, you will not receive a physical Photo ID card . Remember, your NIN is a unique randomized verifiable and biometrically authenticated number assigned to you for life; it is not like an ID card that can be lost, discarded or expire. The most important thing is your number. It will be documented on your ‘NIN Slip’, a paper print out. Please keep your ‘NIN Slip’ safe and secure.
The current focus of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) is on the National Identification Number and not the Photo ID card in the form of a General Multi-Purpose Card (GMPC).
However, there are plans to continue to provide an accompanying card at in later years. At that time, more details will be provided.
- What do I do if I have lost my NIN?
Contact the Enrollment Center where your NIN slip was originally issued to you.
- How long will it take to receive my NIN?
On the day that you arrive at our Data Capture Centre the whole process should take between 10-15 minutes.
Once you have completed your biometric enrolment you receive a ‘Transaction ID Slip’ as evidence that you have completed the process.
Your NIN should be made available to you on the same day in the form of a ‘NIN Slip’.
However, please be advised that on certain occasions due to external factors outside of our control*, it can take up to 3-5 working days to receive your NIN.
In such instances you MUST take your ‘Transaction Slip’ with you to be able to collect your ‘NIN Slip’.
You will receive an Email notification that your ‘NIN Slip’ has been generated and is ready for collection.
- How will / In what form will I receive my NIN?
Your NIN is provided on a ‘NIN Slip’, it is the paper print out you’re are provided with at the end of the process, it details your unique National Identity Number. Keep your ‘NIN Slip’ safe and secure.
- What is a Transaction Slip and a NIN Slip?
Once you have completed your biometric enrolment you receive a ‘Transaction ID Slip as an evidence that you have completed the process.
You must keep your ‘Transaction ID Slip’ in a safe place. If you are not provided with NIN on the same day you will need your ‘Transaction Slip’ to collect it.
Please note that your ‘Transaction ID Slip’ is NOT the same as your ‘NIN Slip’.
Your ‘NIN slip’ is the paper you are provided with at the end of the process, it details your unique National Identity Number. Keep your ‘NIN Slip’ safe and secure.
- What documentation do I need to bring along with me to enrol for my NIN?
When going to enrol for your NIN you can present any of the following:
(a) Nigerian International Passport (Valid or expired)
(b) Nigerian Birth Certificate
(c) Attestation Letter from Nigerian Embassy / Mission
(d) Government ID for staff of FGN
NOTE: Apart from bringing any the above documents, you must come with a copy of your pre-enrolment slip (This can be obtained by visiting: https://diaspora.nimc.gov.ng)
- What is the latest time that I can apply for my NIN?
Although there is no fixed deadline, you cannot obtain or renew the new Nigerian ePassport without a NIN. Eventually you will also no longer be able to:
- Open personal bank accounts
- Getting a Nigerian driver’s license
- Obtaining a Permanent Voters’ Card
- Transactions related to pension schemes
- Conduct land transactions, among other activities and transactions
- Why should I get a NIN, what are the benefits?
Having a NIN will help protect you against ‘Identity Theft ‘and ‘fraud’. The NIN is used to tie all records about an individual in the database and is also used to establish or verify his/her identity.
Additionally, you will no longer be able to obtain or renew a passport without a NIN. Eventually you will also no longer be able to:
- Open personal bank accounts
- Obtain a Nigerian driver’s license
- Obtain a Permanent Voters’ Card
- Carry out transactions relating to pension schemes
- Conduct land transactions, among other activities and transactions.
Tips to help you…
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PAYMENT PROBLEMS: Are you having problems when attempting to pay for your NIN?
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Please ensure that the payment card you’re attempting to use to pay for your NIN appointment is registered with your bank for online transactions.
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If you experience problems trying to pay online with your card, you may wish to consider contacting your bank to register your payment card for online transactions made on websites.
- Your ‘Transaction ID Slip’ is not the same as your ‘NIN Slip’.
- If you have pre-enroled online print a copy of your ‘Pre-Enrolment Slip’ showing Barcode and bring it with you to the Data Capture Enrolment Centre.
- Also print your online ‘Payment Slip/Appointment’ and bring it with you.
- Also bring original copies of your supporting documents with you.
- It is advised that individuals with additional requirements that need the help of a third party to complete the process are accompanied by a trusted friend or family member that can assist them on the day with form filling or translation.
- Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. At least one of the parents or legal guardians must have a NIN.
