The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed all lines not paired with a NIN number to be blocked. Despite extending the deadline several times, some Nigerians are yet to link their NIN number to their lines.

What is National Identification Number (NIN)?

The National Identification Number (NIN) is the unique number that identifies you as a Nigerian and is issued to you upon enrollment by NIMC, the primary legal institution in Nigeria mandated by law with the sole responsibility for identity management in Nigeria. NIN is used to match you with your biometric data and other details in the National Identity Database during verification and authentication.

How do I register for NIN?

If you don’t have a NIN number, you can register at any NIMC enrolment centre while MTN customers can use the nearest MTN enrolment centre. You need to meet up with the requirements for enrolment before you can think of getting a NIN number. All you need is a valid Government-issued ID card and BVN. If for any reason you don’t have a Government-issued ID card, you can provide the following:

• Certificate of origin
• Attestation Letter from a prominent ruler in your community
• Birth certificate or declaration of age
• Attestation from a religious/traditional ruler
• NHIS card
• Government Staff ID card
• Tax clearance certificate

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) will notify you when your NIN is ready after enrolment.

Steps to link NIN to MTN number

There are several ways you can use to link your NIN to your MTN number, you can do this easily using one of these 4 ways:

• Dial ∗785∗Your 11 digit NIN# free of charge and follow the prompts.
• You can also submit your NIN using the MyMTN app.
• Visit nin.mtnonline.com.
• Text NIN-your 11 digit NIN to 785 and send e.g: type NIN-12345678999 as a text message, and send to 785.

You can confirm your registration status by dialling  *346# and replying with 1. You will be charged 20 naira for checking. Also, remember that MTN is rewarding customers with a free N10,000 airtime bonus to call friends and family for linking their NIN to their MTN SIM cards. So, it’s a win for you if you carry out this little task.