The National Identification Number (NIN) is a cornerstone of identity management in Nigeria, serving as a unique identifier for citizens and legal residents.
Whether you’re applying for a passport, registering a SIM card, or accessing government services, having a NIN is mandatory.
This blog provides a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to register for NIN in 2025, covering requirements, online registration, checking status, retrieving your National Identification Number, and more.
What is NIN?
The National Identification Number (NIN) is an 11-digit unique identifier assigned to every Nigerian citizen and legal resident by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
Established under the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, the National Identification Number is a lifetime identifier used to verify identity, prevent fraud, and streamline access to services like banking, telecommunications, and government programs.
It is stored in the National Identity Database (NIDB) alongside biometric data, including fingerprints and a facial photograph.
Minors aged 0–15 receive a National Identification Number slip, while those 16 and above are eligible for the National e-ID card, also known as the General Multi-Purpose Card (GMPC).
The National Identification Number is critical for:
SIM card registration and NIN-SIM linkage.
Opening bank accounts.
Applying for passports or government scholarships.
Accessing exams like JAMB and WAEC.
Participating in government programs like Trader Moni or federal loans.
Why Register for NIN in 2025?
In 2025, the Nigerian government continues to enforce National Identification Number compliance across sectors.
Failure to register or link your National Identification Number to services like mobile numbers may result in restrictions, such as SIM deactivation.
The National Identification Number also enhances national security, supports economic planning, and reduces identity fraud.
With the introduction of the multipurpose National ID card, the National Identification Number is now a gateway to both identity verification and financial transactions.
What Are the Requirements for NIN Registration?
To register for a National Identification Number, you need to provide specific documents to verify your identity.
The requirements vary slightly for adults, minors, and Nigerians in the diaspora.
Below is a breakdown:
For Adults (16 and Above)
Valid Identification Document: One of the following:
Birth certificate or statutory age declaration.
Nigerian passport.
Voter’s card.
Driver’s license.
Old National ID card.
Tax clearance certificate.
Attestation letter from a religious or traditional leader.
Optional: Bank Verification Number (BVN) for enhanced verification.
Physical Presence: You must visit an accredited Enrolment Centre (ERC) for biometric capture (fingerprints, facial photo, and digital signature).
For Minors (0–15 Years)
Parent/Guardian’s National Identification Number Slip: At least one parent or guardian must have a registered National Identification Number.
Birth Certificate: A registered birth certificate or statutory age declaration.
Guardian’s Supporting Documents: Proof of guardianship if the guardian’s National Identification Number is used.
Accompaniment: A parent or guardian must accompany the minor, and if illiterate, a literate individual should assist with form filling.
Note: Minors receive only a NIN slip, not the e-ID card, until they turn 16, when they must update their details.
For Nigerians in the Diaspora
Valid Nigerian Passport or an authentication letter from a Nigerian Embassy/Mission.
Online Pre-Enrolment: Complete the diaspora pre-enrolment form on the NIMC website.
Appointment: Book an appointment with an NIMC-licensed partner in your country of residence.
Biometric Capture: Visit the designated NIN application center for biometric data collection.
Pro Tip: Confirm the latest requirements with your local NIMC Enrolment Centre or diaspora NIN center, as updates may occur.
How to Register for NIN Online
NIN registration involves both online and in-person steps.
The online process is a pre-enrolment step that simplifies data entry before visiting an Enrolment Centre.
Here’s how to do it in 2025:
1. Visit the NIMC Pre-Enrolment Portal:
Go to the official NIMC website (www.nimc.gov.ng) and access the pre-enrolment portal.
Alternatively, use the NIMC Mobile App, available on Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Fill Out the Enrolment Form:
Provide your demographic details, including full name, date of birth, address, and phone number.
Ensure all information is accurate to avoid issues during verification.
For minors, a parent or guardian must fill out the form and provide their National Identification Number.
3. Generate a 2D Barcode:
After submitting the form, print the summary sheet containing a 2D barcode and your tracking ID.
If you don’t have a printer, save the barcode digitally or note the tracking ID.
4. Visit an Accredited Enrolment Centre (ERC):
Locate the nearest ERC via the NIMC website (https://nimc.gov.ng/nimc-enrolment-centres).
Present your 2D barcode, tracking ID, and required documents.
An enrolment officer will verify your details, capture your biometrics, and scan your supporting documents.
5. Receive a Transaction Slip:
You’ll get a Transaction Slip with your enrolment/tracking ID.
You’ll be notified (via SMS or at the ERC) when your NIN slip is ready for collection, typically within 1–5 working days, depending on network speed.
6. Collect Your NIN Slip:
Return to the ERC to collect your NIN slip, which contains your 11-digit NIN. Protect it like a bank card, as it’s sensitive information.
Note: Online pre-enrolment is optional. You can also visit an ERC directly, fill out a physical form, and complete the process.
For diaspora applicants, check the NIMC diaspora portal for licensed partners in your country.
How to Get Your NIN Number on Your Phone
If you’ve already registered but need to retrieve your National Identification Number, you can do so conveniently using your phone:
1. USSD Code Method:
Dial *346# on the mobile number registered with your NIN.
Select option “1” (NIN Retrieval).
Your National Identification Number will be displayed on the screen or sent via SMS.
Cost: ₦20 per request, deducted from your airtime.
2. NIMC Mobile App:
Download the NIMC Mobile App from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Log in with your registered details or create an account.
Access your National Identification Number directly within the app.
3. Visit an ERC:
If the USSD method fails, visit an NIMC Enrolment Centre with your phone number, date of birth, or fingerprints for verification.
You may need to pay ₦500 via Remita for a NIN slip reprint if you’ve lost it.
Caution: Do not share your National Identification Number publicly, as it’s sensitive information. Avoid clicking on unverified links requesting your NIN to prevent scams.
How to Check NIN Registration Status Online
To confirm whether your National Identification Number is ready or track your enrolment progress:
Via the NIMC Website:
Visit www.nimc.gov.ng and navigate to the “Check NIN Status” section.
Enter your Transaction ID or tracking ID from your Transaction Slip.
Click “Check Now” to view your registration status.
Via the NIMC Mobile App:
Open the NIMC Mobile App and log in.
Use the status checker feature by entering your tracking ID.
Contact NIMC:
If you encounter issues, contact NIMC via:
Phone: 08157691214, 08157691071, or 09034959433.
Email: servicom@nimc.gov.ng or actu@nimc.gov.ng.
You can also visit an ERC for in-person assistance.
Note: Processing typically takes 1–5 working days, but delays may occur due to network issues or biometric “hits” (when your data matches an existing record).
If a hit occurs, NIMC’s Abuja office will review it, and you’ll be notified within two weeks.
How to Get Your NIN Slip Online
If you’ve lost your National Identification Number slip or need a digital copy, you can obtain it online through third-party services like NINCard, as NIMC does not directly offer online slip printing.
Here’s how:
Use NINCard or Similar Services:
Visit a trusted platform like nincard.com.
Select the “Print NIN Slip” option.
Enter your National Identification Number, a valid email address, and your location.
Pay a small fee (varies by platform, typically ₦500–₦1,000).
Download the digital National Identification Number slip (Standard or Premium format) within 24–48 hours.
Print the Slip:
Save the downloaded slip to your phone or computer.
Connect to a printer or visit a cybercafé to print a physical copy.
Pro Tip: Laminate your slip for durability and save a digital version for emergencies.
Troubleshooting:
If you don’t receive the slip within 48 hours, check your spam/junk email folder.
Contact the platform’s support (e.g., NINCard’s customer service) for assistance.
Alternative: Visit an NIMC Enrolment Centre with a ₦500 Remita payment, a police report, and a sworn affidavit (for lost slips) to request a reprint.
Cost to Reprint a NIN Slip
Reprinting a NIN slip incurs a fee, as the initial enrolment is free. The costs in 2025 are:
National Identification Number Slip Re-Issuance: ₦500, payable via Remita.
Payment Process:
Visit www.remita.net and select “Pay Billers.”
Choose “National Identity Management Commission” and “NIN Slip Re-issue.”
Enter your full name, phone number, and the ₦500 amount.
Complete the payment via card, bank branch, USSD, or internet banking.
Print the Remita Retrieval Reference (RRR) invoice.
At the ERC:
Present the RRR invoice, a police report, and a sworn affidavit (if the slip was lost).
Your slip will be reprinted after verification.
Additional Costs:
Data Modification: ₦500 per updatable field (e.g., name, address); ₦15,000 for date of birth changes.
National e-ID Card: Free for first issuance; replacement or renewal fees apply (not specified by NIMC).
Additional Tips for NIN Registration in 2025
Avoid Extortion: NIMC has a zero-tolerance policy for extortion. Report any corrupt practices to the NIMC Servicom Unit at 08157691214 or servicom@nimc.gov.ng.
NIN-SIM Linkage: Link your National Identification Number to your phone numbers to avoid SIM deactivation.
For example:
MTN: Dial 996Your NIN#.
Airtel: Visit the Airtel National Identification Number linking portal or dial *996#.
You can link up to seven phone numbers to one NIN.
Protect Your National Identification Number: Treat your National Identification Number like a bank PIN. Do not display it on social media or share it with unverified parties.
Diaspora Enrolment: Nigerians abroad should check the NIMC diaspora portal for approved enrolment centers and book appointments in advance.
Minors’ Updates: Minors must update their biometric data at age 16 to receive the National e-ID card. A text notification will be sent to the parent/guardian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is NIN registration free?
A: Yes, initial NIN registration is free. However, slip re-issuance costs ₦500, and data modifications incur additional fees.
Q: Can I register for NIN entirely online?
A: No, biometric capture requires an in-person visit to an ERC. Online pre-enrolment only simplifies the initial form-filling process.
Q: What if I forget my NIN?
A: Dial *346# on your registered phone number, use the NIMC Mobile App, or visit an ERC to retrieve it.
Q: How long does NIN processing take?
A: Typically 1–5 working days, but delays may occur due to network issues or biometric hits.
Conclusion
Registering for a NIN in 2025 is a straightforward process that combines online pre-enrolment with in-person biometric capture.
By preparing the required documents, following the steps outlined, and using tools like the NIMC Mobile App or USSD codes, you can obtain, retrieve, or reprint your National Identification Number with ease.
The National Identification Number is more than just a number—it’s your key to accessing essential services and proving your identity in Nigeria.
Stay proactive, protect your National Identification Number, and ensure compliance to avoid service restrictions.
For further assistance, visit the official NIMC website (www.nimc.gov.ng) or contact their support channels.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with others to help them navigate the National Identification Number registration process in 2025!
