The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has announced that nationwide ward-level registration for the National Identification Number (NIN) will commence on Monday, February 16, 2026.
The initiative followed a presidential directive instructing NIMC to expand enrollment to the grassroots, ensuring that more Nigerians and legal residents are captured in the National Identity Database.
Dr. Kayode Adegoke, Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC, said the exercise, which is free of charge, would cover children, adults, and all eligible residents.
The programme is part of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda under President Bola Tinubu, aimed at promoting inclusive governance, national development, and broader access to identity services.
“The ward-level rollout is a strategic step towards decentralising identity services, improving accessibility, and reducing travel burdens for residents, particularly in rural and underserved communities,” Adegoke said.
The commission has engaged stakeholders at national, state, and local government levels and is conducting sensitisation campaigns to educate the public on the importance of obtaining a NIN.
State governments, local authorities, traditional rulers, market associations, and faith-based organisations are being mobilised to ensure seamless implementation across all wards.
NIMC urged Nigerians and legal residents who have not yet enrolled to take advantage of the opportunity, encouraging families to register children, parents, and dependents during the exercise.
The ward-level enrollment schedule, detailing rotational movements of licensed front-end partners and NIMC staff, is available on the commission’s website.
For inquiries, assistance, or complaints, members of the public can contact NIMC via its toll-free line.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to expanding identity coverage nationwide and strengthening the national database as a foundation for planning, service delivery, and economic inclusion.
