DAILY COURIER - The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has raised concerns over the unauthorized printing of National Identification Number (NIN) cards by certain individuals, cyber cafes, and organizations. These entities are reportedly producing counterfeit NIN cards and charging unsuspecting Nigerians exorbitant fees for these illegitimate services.
NIMC emphasizes that it has not granted permission to any individual or organization to print NIN cards as substitutes for the official General Multi-Purpose Card (GMPC). Such unauthorized activities violate the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007. The commission warns the public and organizations to desist from printing or accepting any NIN cards that are not issued by NIMC. These counterfeit cards are not recognized by the commission and should not be used as valid means of identification.
Security agencies have been alerted to this illicit activity and are mandated to apprehend and prosecute those involved. NIMC reiterates that the NIN slip remains the only legal document authorized for identification purposes and must be verified upon presentation to access services.
To address public demand, NIMC has finalized plans to launch an improved GMPC. This multifunctional card will serve as both a physical means of identification and a payment card, powered by AfriGO, a local payment platform.
The commission urges the public to remain vigilant and only engage with official NIMC channels to avoid falling victim to fraudsters.
