NIMC Hikes Date of Birth Correction Fee for NIN to ₦28,850
In a development that has sparked mixed reactions across the country, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has officially increased the fee for date of birth correction on the National Identification Number (NIN) from ₦16,340 to ₦28,850.
This change, which took many Nigerians by surprise, comes amid growing concerns over the cost of accessing essential government services. For many citizens, especially those in rural or low-income communities, the new fee could be a significant financial burden.
While NIMC has yet to publicly provide a detailed explanation for the hike, speculation points to administrative costs and efforts to reduce frivolous or fraudulent correction requests as possible reasons behind the decision.
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) is the agency responsible for managing Nigeria’s national identity database. Its primary function is to issue and regulate the National Identification Number (NIN) — a unique number assigned to every Nigerian and legal resident. This number is used to verify and authenticate identities across various government and private sector platforms.
NIMC plays a vital role in identity verification for services such as banking, telecoms (SIM registration), immigration, healthcare, and education. By integrating NIN with other databases like BVN, driver’s license, voter card, and passport, NIMC ensures data consistency and national security. The commission also helps reduce fraud, identity theft, and duplication of records by maintaining a centralized biometric and demographic identity system.
Key duties of NIMC include:
- Enrolling citizens and residents for NIN
- Managing and updating the National Identity Database
- Providing identity verification services to institutions
- Regulating and licensing enrollment and verification agents
- Promoting awareness about the importance of digital identity
NIMC also collaborates with private sector partners to expand access to enrollment centres across the country, including rural and underserved areas.
As of 2024, the Director General/CEO of NIMC is Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote. Under her leadership, the commission has intensified efforts to digitize services, enhance data security, and accelerate the NIN-SIM integration process nationwide.
NIMC remains a key player in building Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and enabling secure, trusted access to both public and private services.
As NIN continues to be a crucial requirement for banking, SIM registration, and other government services, the adjustment may further complicate access for those with genuine errors on their records.
Nigerians are advised to double check all personal details during enrollment to avoid future correction fees.
