The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has announced that it will commence a nationwide ward-level enrollment exercise for the National Identification Number (NIN) beginning Monday, February 16, 2026.
The Commission’s Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Kayode Adegoke, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, noting that the initiative is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive mandating NIMC to take NIN registration to the grassroots across the country.
According to the Commission, the exercise is aimed at ensuring the comprehensive registration of every Nigerian citizen and legal resident, including children and adults, into the National Identity Database. The enrollment will be conducted free of charge as part of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda to promote inclusive governance, national development, and improved access to identity services.
NIMC described the ward-level initiative as a strategic move to deepen identity inclusion by decentralizing its operations and bringing services closer to communities. The Commission said the approach would improve accessibility, reduce the burden of travel for applicants, and encourage wider participation nationwide.
As part of preparations for the rollout, NIMC said it has commenced engagements with stakeholders at the national, state, and local government levels to drive sensitization and awareness on the importance and benefits of NIN. State governments, local government authorities, traditional rulers, community leaders, market associations, and faith-based organizations are being consulted to ensure a smooth and seamless registration process across all wards.
The Commission urged Nigerians and legal residents who are yet to enroll to take advantage of the opportunity and participate fully in the exercise, encouraging families to enroll their children, parents, and wards within their communities.
NIMC added that ward enrollment schedules, which will guide the rotational deployment of licensed front-end partners and its staff, are available on its official website. Members of the public seeking further information, assistance, or to lodge complaints were advised to contact the Commission through its toll-free line.
