FG Cracks Down on Fake NIN Card Producers, Introduces New Multi-Purpose Card 

NIMC

The Federal Government has launched a strict crackdown on individuals and businesses involved in the illegal production of fake National Identification Number (NIN) cards. The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has warned that offenders will face legal action and urged Nigerians to avoid falling victim to these fraudulent activities. 

Government’s Warning on Fake NIN Cards 

In a statement released on Monday, NIMC raised concerns over the rising cases of unauthorized NIN card printing by cyber cafés and other entities. These fraudsters reportedly charge unsuspecting Nigerians high fees for fake identification cards, which are not recognized by the government. 

According to Kayode Adegoke, NIMC’s Head of Corporate Communications, such illegal production violates the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007. He further warned that security agencies have been directed to arrest and prosecute those engaged in the act. 

    “The so-called NIN card is not authorized by NIMC, and on no account should anyone present it as a means of identification,” Adegoke stated. 

NIMC emphasized that the only valid proof of identification remains the NIN slip, which must be verified before use. 

Nigeria’s NIN Enrollment Reaches 117.3 million 

As part of its ongoing national identity management efforts, NIMC announced that 117.3 million Nigerians had been enrolled in the NIN database as of February 28, 2025. This milestone highlights the growing importance of NIN in identity verification and government services. 

“The so-called NIN card is not authorized by NIMC, and on no account should anyone present it as a means of identification.” 

— Kayode Adegoke, NIMC’s Head of Corporate Communications 

New General Multi-Purpose Card (GMPC) Set for Rollout 

To address the demand for a physical ID card, NIMC has finalized plans to launch an improved General Multi-Purpose Card (GMPC). 

Features of the New GMPC 

    Identity & Payment Functions: The card will serve as both an official identification document and a payment card, powered by AfriGO, a local payment platform. 

    Supports Federal & Private Sector Use: The card will be used for government interventions, social services, and economic transactions. 

    Aims to Reduce Fraud & Improve Efficiency: Unlike the previous National ID card initiative, which resulted in millions of uncollected cards, the new GMPC will only be issued to those who genuinely need it. 

How to Get the GMPC 

NIMC clarified that the GMPC will not be free. The decision to charge for the card is based on the government’s limited resources and the need to ensure efficient distribution. Nigerians who need the card will have to apply and pay a fee. 

The government’s crackdown on fake NIN cards serves as a strong warning to fraudsters and a reminder to Nigerians to only use authorized identification methods. Meanwhile, the upcoming GMPC launch is expected to offer a more secure and multi-functional alternative to meet the growing demand for a physical ID card. 

Nigerians are advised to stay informed, verify their NIN details through official channels, and avoid engaging with unauthorized card producers.