By Nkechi Eze
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has announced that it will commence nationwide ward-level enrollment for the issuance of the National Identification Number (NIN) on Monday, February 16, 2026, in line with a presidential directive mandating the Commission to take registration to the grassroots across the country.
In an official signed statement, the Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC, Kayode Adegoke, disclosed that the exercise is designed to ensure the comprehensive registration of every Nigerian citizen and legal resident, including both children and adults, into the National Identity Database.
According to the Commission, the ward-level enrollment will be conducted free of charge as part of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, aimed at promoting inclusive governance, national development and improved access to identity services.
The Commission explained that the initiative represents a strategic step toward deepening identity inclusion by decentralising enrollment services and bringing registration directly to communities at the ward level. By doing so, NIMC said it seeks to improve accessibility, reduce the travel burden on citizens and legal residents, and drive broader nationwide participation in the identity management system.
NIMC encouraged Nigerians and legal residents who are yet to obtain their NIN to take full advantage of the opportunity, noting that the ward-to-ward approach will make the process more convenient and community-focused. Members of the public were urged to enroll their children, parents, wards and other family members within their respective communities during the exercise.
To ensure a smooth rollout, the Commission disclosed that it has commenced extensive stakeholder engagements at the national, state and local government levels, alongside sensitisation and awareness campaigns highlighting the importance, benefits and uses of the NIN.
State governments, local government authorities, traditional rulers, community leaders, market associations and faith-based organisations are being consulted to facilitate seamless registration across all wards nationwide. The collaborative approach, NIMC stated, is intended to guarantee inclusive participation and efficient coordination throughout the exercise.
The Commission further informed the public that ward enrollment schedules, which will guide the rotational movement of licensed front-end partners and NIMC staff, are available on its official website, www.nimc.gov.ng.
For further inquiries, assistance or complaint resolution, members of the public have been advised to contact the NIMC toll-free line on 0800-061-6462.
