It is now mandatory for everyone to get a National Identification Number (NIN) in Nigeria. If you have already registered but yet to link to your MTN Phone Number, this article is poised to provide you with the tips.
Even if you have planned not to do it, the new instruction by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) currently going around will leave one with no choice but to go to any NIMC registration centre. It can only be avoided if you planned not to own a mobile phone and a bank account which is impossible.
The Regulatory Body of Nigerian Telecoms, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed that every Nigerian should register for National Identification Number (NIN) and Link To their Network.
The NIN is a government-issued and unique number for every Nigerian and one that is currently managed by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). It is becoming a digital gateway to getting almost anything from the Federal Government.
NIN is now required for getting an international Passport. Banks, private institutions, and government establishments now recognize the power that it holds.
HOW TO REGISTER FOR NATIONAL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (NIN)
The NIMC is already harmonising the NIN and the bank verification number (BVN). Therefore, it becomes pertinent for everyone to register for the Nigerian National ID Card. National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has their offices in every Local Government in Nigeria, you should visit the office from 9 am to 4 pm during the government official working days.
You can also enrol for your National Identity Number at designated Zenith Bank branches. Visit www.zenithbank.com/nin to check the participating branches.
Meanwhile, it would be better if you go before 9am so you can put down your names before more people arrive. To register for NIN, otherwise known as National ID Card, you will need to provide any of the following documents which are Driver’s License, Nigerian International passport, Old National ID Card, Voter’s card (Temporary or Permanent), Certificate of Origin, Birth certificate, Attestation letter from a prominent ruler in your community, Declaration of age, etc.
For minors, the documents could be any of testimonial, original birth certificate and NIN slip of one of the Nigerian Parent / Guardian.
The NIMC Official will need to be sure that you are exactly who you say you are before registering your details. After registration, a Transaction ID Slip will be given to you pending the time your National Identification Number (NIN) will be ready.
Issuance of National Identification Number (NIN) could take 2 to 7 days depending on where you register. You can check back during those days to request for your NIN temporary card or check your NIN by dialing the ussd code *346#.
Meanwhile, you will be updated via the registered phone number if it is ready.
The Transaction ID Slip will be requested as it will be used to confirm if your NIN is ready. Once ready, you will get a printout of your National Identification Number (NIN).
HOW TO LINK YOUR NIN WITH YOUR MTN PHONE NUMBER
- To link your National Identification Number (NIN) to your MTN Phone Number, Dial *785# using the MTN number you want to link.
- Enter your 11 digits NIN and send.
- A confirmation message will be sent immediately. If there is an error, you will need to retry the process.
- Alternatively, visit mtnonline.com/nim using your mobile or PC browser to link your NIN with your MTN line. Provide all required details and submit.
- If you can’t remember your NIN, dial *346# on the phone number you provided during your NIN registration. This service cost N20. Ensure you copy it out or screen-grab if you are using a smartphone.
