The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has announced the cancellation of data modification activities at all its National Identification Number (NIN) enrollment centers across the country, urging users to embrace its self-service modification portal.
This move, aimed at enhancing the National Identity Management System, comes after the commission noticed that despite launching the portal earlier this year to reduce queues, many still preferred visiting physical centers. NIMC is now directing all NIN holders to update their details online via the self-service platform, which it says offers a more efficient and secure process.
“Modification activities will no longer be conducted at our enrollment centers. Instead, we have launched a convenient self-service modification portal, empowering you to update your information securely and efficiently online,” NIMC stated in a notice released on Wednesday.
The self-service modification portal allows users to update their NIN details, including name, address, phone number, and date of birth. However, some fields remain non-editable. The portal can be accessed on the NIMC website, and users can log in to modify their details after verifying their NIN. Payment for modifications is processed through Paystack, with charges for updating name, address, or phone number set at N1,522.50, while modifying the date of birth costs N16,340.
NIMC highlighted the benefits of using the online platform, citing reduced wait times and improved data security. “No more long queues or waiting periods. The portal enhances data security as it is a secure online platform, offering faster approval for modifications,” the commission said.
However, some users have reported challenges with the self-service portal, particularly with receiving the OTP (One-Time Password) required to proceed. Others have complained about payment issues, with some receiving rejection notifications after making payments without any clear guidance on the next steps.
To modify personal details on the NIMC portal, users need to verify their NIN, log in, and select the modification option from the dashboard. After making the necessary payment through Paystack, those modifying their date of birth will need to enter and validate their NPC certificate number. The portal then auto-fills the date of birth, which cannot be edited further. Users can submit the required supporting documents and receive their updated NIN slip once the request is approved.
Despite some hiccups, the NIMC is confident that the self-service portal will streamline the NIN modification process for millions of users across the country, ensuring faster and more secure service delivery.
By switching to this online system, NIMC aims to eliminate long queues and improve service efficiency, making the process easier for citizens and businesses alike. For Africa’s growing MSME sector, this shift is a step towards better digital integration, enabling business owners to manage their identity information seamlessly.
To be eligible to use the NIMC short code, make sure your phone number has met the following requirements:
– Make sure your phone number is linked to your NIN registration to use this shortcode service.
– Modification requests are subject to verification and approval by NIMC.
– You may be charged a fee for the modification service.
Here is the step-by-step guide to modifying your NIN using the shortcode:
Step 1: Dial the Short Code
Dial *346# on your mobile phone.
Step 2: Select NIN Modification
Select the “NIN Modification” option from the menu.
Step 3: Enter NIN
Enter your 11-digit National Identification Number (NIN).
Step 4: Verify NIN
Verify that your NIN is correct and proceed to the next step.
Step 5: Select Modification Option
Select the modification option you want to update (e.g., name, date of birth, address, etc.).
Step 6: Enter New Details
Enter the new details you want to update.
Step 7: Confirm Changes
Confirm that the new details are correct.
Step 8: Receive Confirmation Code
You will receive a confirmation code via SMS.
Step 9: Confirm Modification
Enter the confirmation code to complete the modification process.
Step 10: Receive Update Confirmation
You will receive a confirmation message indicating that your NIN has been successfully updated.
