NIMC assures Nigerians of safety of identity data

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has denied claims of a security breach involving Nigerians’ National Identity Number (NIN) and other personal information.

This is contained in a statement by the Head, Corporate Communications, NIMC, Mr Kayode Adegoke, made available to our reporter Abuja on Wednesday.

Adegoke was reacting to claims contained in a video circulating on social media, alleging that Nigerians’ personal data was exposed and offered for sale.

He described the claims as misleading and assured Nigerians that their data remained safe.

According to him, the NIMC wishes to assure Nigerians that their data is safe and secure and there is no need for panic.

He said the commission had put measures in place to protect the NIN of Nigerians and other personal information contained in the National Identity Database.

“Our systems are protected and the commission remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of citizens’ identity information,” he emphasised.

Adegoke urged Nigerians to disregard unverified information capable of creating fear over the safety of their identity information.

”NIMC takes the protection of citizens’ personal data seriously and will continue to strengthen measures against unauthorised access,” he assured.

The NIMC spokesman also advised Nigerians to use approved channels for NIN verification and other identity-related services.

He quoted the Director-General of the commission, Mrs Abisoye Coker-Odusote, as ordering a comprehensive investigation into the matter.

Coker-Odusote said that the investigation would determine whether any of its tokenisation verification agents breached their licensing agreements directly or through sub-licensees.

”NIMC will continue to work with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the identity information entrusted to the commission is properly protected,” she assured.

She reaffirmed the commitment of the commission to data protection and privacy.