The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has introduced new guidelines for Nigerians seeking to change their date of birth on the National Identification Number (NIN) database.
According to the recent directive released by the commission, applicants will now be required to submit an electronic civil registration and vital statistics system (e-CRVS) certificate issued by the National Population Commission (NPC) along with other valid documents.
Previously, the modification of age and other details on the NIN system only necessitated affidavits and a payment of N15,000. However, under the new guidelines, the date of birth modification can now only be done once in a lifetime and exclusively at NIMC enrolment centers.
NIMC has emphasised that licensed agents are not authorized to perform date of birth modifications or any other form of alterations.
In a statement signed by Abisoye Coker-Odusote, the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of NIMC, the commission highlighted the importance of a mandatory revalidation process for all current partners.
This process is designed to ensure compliance with the latest standards, protocols, and NIMC’s policies. The revalidation will include a comprehensive review of third-party organizations’ operations, technical infrastructure, and adherence to NIMC’s guidelines.
Key documentation requirements for the revalidation process include the submission of the current Business Registration Certificate, an updated Company Profile, a copy of the signed Memorandum of Understanding, evidence of fees paid to acquire a license, tax clearance certificates for the past three years, and evidence of compliance with NIMC’s technical specifications.
Additionally, partners are expected to provide proof of training and capacity building for staff involved in the identity enrolment process, as well as disclose the total number of NIN registrations. Limited liability companies (LLCs) must also furnish a list of sub-licensees registered under them.
In a separate development, the NIMC has earmarked N9.57 billion for construction purposes in 2024, as indicated in the 2024 Appropriation Bill. While the specific nature of the construction projects remains undisclosed, the allocation has raised questions in certain quarters.
The NIMC was recently transferred from the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy to the Ministry of Interior and subsequently moved to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
Public Reaction
The unveiling of the NIMC’s stricter guidelines for modifying the date of birth on the NIN database has sparked reactions from the Nigerian public and various stakeholders. While the move is seen as a positive step towards bolstering the security and accuracy of personal data, some citizens have expressed concerns about the potential challenges this may pose, particularly for those with legitimate reasons for date of birth adjustments.
A cross-section of Nigerians has welcomed the emphasis on obtaining an electronic civil registration and vital statistics system (e-CRVS) certificate from the National Population Commission (NPC). Many believe that this additional verification step adds credibility to the modification process, reducing the likelihood of unauthorised alterations and enhancing the overall trustworthiness of the NIN database.
However, there are voices expressing the need for the NIMC to ensure that the process remains accessible and streamlined for citizens who genuinely require corrections to their date of birth. Advocates argue that a balance must be struck between stringent security measures and providing a user-friendly process that accommodates legitimate requests.
