How to handle your NIN.

Do's and Don'ts for your NIN

Your NIN is permanent, unique to you, and tied to your biometrics. Treat it as sensitive identity data — not as a number to share casually.

Do's

1. Keep Your NIN Confidential. Avoid sharing your NIN with unauthorised persons or entities, to prevent identity theft and misuse. Share it only where there is a legitimate, authorised reason.
2. Update Information Promptly. Notify NIMC promptly of changes to your name, address, or contact information, so your record stays accurate and your number remains usable. See NIN Data Updates for Toronto updates.
3. Use Your NIN for Authorized Purposes Only. Use your NIN for government services, financial transactions, and official verifications — the authorised purposes for which it was issued.
4. Verify NIN Usage Requests. Before giving your NIN, check the legitimacy of the request and that there is a valid reason for it. If a request looks unusual or insecure, do not comply until you have verified it.
5. Report a Lost or Stolen NIN Card. Report a lost or stolen NIN card to NIMC immediately, so the loss is recorded and your identity cannot be misused through the card.

Don'ts

1. Don't share your NIN freely, or with unknown parties. A freely shared NIN is an invitation to identity theft. Keep it private, and share it only with authorised persons and entities.
2. Don't use fake or altered NIN cards or information. Using fake or altered NIN cards or information is illegal, and carries legal consequences.
3. Don't misuse your NIN for fraud. Do not misuse your NIN for fraud, including false documents, impersonation, or financial scams. Misuse harms both the holder and others, and is punishable under Nigerian law.
4. Don't forget to renew or update your NIN card. Track your NIN card's expiration date, and update your personal changes promptly, so your card and record do not fall out of date.
5. Don't ignore NIMC security measures. Keep your NIN in a safe place, follow NIMC security guidance, and do not share your NIN over insecure channels.

Following these do's and don'ts ensures proper, secure use of your NIN and protection from identity theft and misuse. If your NIN has been suspended, or was generated through a bank, start on the Suspended NIN page; if you need a replacement slip, see .

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