Author: Casey Frost
Digital Identity Researcher | National ID Policy Analyst | Nigerian KYC Compliance Expert
Are you looking to register for your National Identification Number (NIN) in Nigeria? Whether you need it for opening a bank account, accessing a loan, linking your SIM card, or verifying your identity online, NIN has become an essential requirement for all Nigerians and legal residents.
In this comprehensive guide, we walk you through everything you need to know about how to get NIN in Nigeria: how to register (offline and partially online), documents required, common mistakes to avoid, and how to check or retrieve your NIN once registered.
Let’s get started.
What Is NIN, and Why Do You Need It?
NIN (National Identification Number) is an 11-digit number issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to every Nigerian citizen and legal resident who has registered with them.
Why You Need It:
- SIM card registration (NCC mandate)
- Loan application (CBN KYC requirement)
- Opening bank accounts
- NYSC mobilization
- Passport processing & immigration
- Scholarships and job applications
Without NIN, accessing most public and financial services in Nigeria will be nearly impossible this year.
Who Can Register for NIN?
You are eligible to register for NIN if you are:
- A Nigerian citizen (by birth or naturalization)
- A legal resident of Nigeria
- Aged 0 and above (yes, even children can be enrolled)
Special Notes:
- Minors (under 16) will be enrolled under a parent/guardian’s profile.
- NYSC corps members and students must also register for NIN individually.
Documents Required for NIN Registration
You need at least one valid original document from the NIMC-accepted list. Acceptable documents include:
Primary IDs:
- Birth Certificate
- Nigerian International Passport
- Driver’s License
- Voter’s Card (PVC)
- Old National ID Card (if available)
- Government Staff ID card
Secondary IDs (with two required):
- Utility bill
- School ID card
- Bank statement
- LGA certificate of origin
Pro Tip: If your names differ across documents, come with an affidavit or marriage certificate.
How to Register for NIN Offline (Physical Walk-in Process)
NIMC currently requires in-person registration for full biometric capture.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Locate a NIMC enrollment center (see list below)
- Collect and fill out the NIN enrollment form (on-site or download from the NIMC website)
- Submit your valid ID document
- NIMC official captures:
- Biometric data (fingerprints, facial photo, signature)
- Personal info: name, address, phone, NIN dependencies
- Receive a Transaction Slip with your enrollment ID number
- Return after 1–5 working days (sometimes longer) to collect your NIN Slip (printout with your 11-digit NIN)
Pro Tip: Avoid agents who promise “express NIN” for payment. NIN enrollment is free!
Can You Register for NIN Online in Nigeria?
There is no full online NIN registration process in 2025.
You can, however:
- Pre-enroll online via the NIMC pre-enrollment portal (https://nimc.gov.ng)
- Please fill out the form, print it out, and take it to any nearby NIMC center
This can save time and ensure fewer errors during manual form filling.
Where to Register: NIN Enrollment Centers in Nigeria
NIMC registration is available in all 36 states and the FCT. Common locations:
- Local Government Secretariats
- Banks (GTBank, Zenith, Access, UBA branches with NIMC desks)
- SIM registration outlets (MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile licensed agents)
- Special NYSC enrollment camps (for corps members)
Use NIMC’s official center locator tool to find the nearest one.
How to Retrieve or Check Your NIN (If Already Registered)
If you enrolled previously and lost your slip or forgot your number, use:
USSD Code: Dial *346#The phone number used during NIN registration.
- Choose “NIN Retrieval” (Option 1)
- ₦20 will be charged (deducted from your airtime)
- Your NIN will appear on-screen
How to Link Your NIN to Your SIM Card (MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile)
This is mandatory in 2025. You can link via:
MTN:
- Dial
*785#and follow prompts - Or send NIN + number to 785 via SMS
Airtel:
- Dial
*121*1#and enter NIN
Glo:
- Text NIN to 109 via SMS
9mobile:
- Dial
*200*8# - Or use their website, the NIN portal
Use the official telco portal or customer care for confirmation.
Common NIN Registration Errors (and How to Fix Them)
1. Name mismatch across documents
Solution: Swear an affidavit and bring a newspaper publication or marriage certificate.
2. Duplicate NIN enrollment
Solution: Visit NIMC with both slips and request a merge/fix.
3. Wrong date of birth
Solution: Request correction at the NIMC center with supporting documents. (Fee may apply.)
FAQs About How to Get NIN in Nigeria
Is NIN registration free?
Yes. NIMC does not charge for enrollment. Avoid unofficial agents requesting money.
Can I register for NIN with only my BVN?
No. BVN can be used to autofill data, but you still need to visit NIMC for biometrics.
Can I get a NIN without a birth certificate?
Yes. Use alternative IDs or an affidavit of age declaration.
How long does it take to get an NIN?
Usually 1–5 working days. In high-traffic areas, it can take longer.
Q: Can I get a loan without an NIN?
It’s becoming harder. Some apps still approve loans with just BVN (read our guide).
Final Checklist Before You Go to NIMC
- ✅ Original valid ID (passport, PVC, driver’s license, etc.)
- ✅ Pre-filled form (if using pre-enrollment portal)
- ✅ Airtime on your phone for USSD retrieval
- ✅ Patience (queues may be long in some areas)
Conclusion
Currently, getting your National Identification Number is not just an option—it’s a requirement. Whether you’re a student, job seeker, loan applicant, or SIM user, your NIN is your passport to digital services and government compliance.
Registering now will save you future stress.
Want to check if your NIN is ready? Use the USSD code today. Need help finding a center? Visit the NIMC website.
Related Articles:
- Loan Without NIN in Nigeria (2025)
- Best Loan Apps in Nigeria 2025
- Loan Without BVN in Nigeria
- CBN-Licensed Loan Apps List
Author Bio:
Casey Frost is a digital identity researcher and compliance expert who helps Nigerians understand and navigate fintech registration processes. Follow Casey on Twitter for updates and insider tips.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. Always confirm the latest guidelines on the official NIMC website.
