The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has announced the official approval for the launch of the National Identification Number Authentication (NINAuth) application, designed to provide seamless identity verification across Nigeria.
This move follows a directive from President Bola Tinubu for the adoption of NINAuth as a key tool for verification across various ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) in the country.
In a statement released on Tuesday, signed by NIMC’s Head of Corporate Communications, Kayode Adegoke, the commission emphasized that the introduction of the NINAuth app aligns with its mandate to regulate a reliable national digital identity system for Nigerian citizens and legal residents. The platform aims to simplify identity verification processes while enhancing data security and privacy protection.
“The launch of the NIN Authentication (NINAuth), a comprehensive suite of services including web, API, and mobile verification, is a pivotal step in strengthening Nigeria’s National Identity Management System under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” the statement read.
The NIMC noted that NINAuth introduces a robust layer of protection for individuals, granting them greater control over their personal data. By requiring explicit consent before sharing information for Know Your Customer (KYC) processes or other verifications, the platform fosters trust, transparency, and user autonomy in managing their digital identity.
With NINAuth, Nigerians can securely verify their identity and easily access key government services, including SIM card registration and replacement, immigration applications, passport processing, tax filings, financial transactions, and government intervention programs across various MDAs. The service will also simplify processes such as driver’s license renewals and other regulatory activities.
Some of the key features of the NINAuth app include enhanced security, empowering users to control their data-sharing preferences, and seamless access to government services through a single sign-on solution. This initiative is designed to ensure that individuals can access essential services securely and efficiently.
The NIMC highlighted that the NINAuth platform was built with an interoperable interface that supports identity verification through API integration, facilitating real-time authentication of NIN records. This, the commission stated, will improve service delivery, promote database harmonization, and ensure compliance with Nigeria’s National Identity Policy.
“The NINAuth service has been designated as the exclusive platform for all NIN-based verification and authentication processes to guarantee optimal service delivery,” Adegoke added.
Nigerians are encouraged to download the NINAuth app from the Google Play Store or Apple iOS App Store, with the implementation guide and process flow available on the NIMC website. As of November 2024, the commission reported that 115 million Nigerians and legal residents had registered for the NIN.
Earlier this month, NIMC also announced a revision of its pricing structure for all its services, further demonstrating its commitment to improving the efficiency and accessibility of identity management in Nigeria.
