Anti-graft agency, NIMC raise alarm over identity fraud as security agencies tighten surveillance on enrolment centres nationwide
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has warned National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) enrolment partners that anyone involved in fraudulent National Identification Number (NIN) registrations, including enrolling foreigners as Nigerians, risks a seven-year prison sentence upon conviction.
The warning was issued during a security briefing organised by NIMC in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser and other security agencies in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, ICPC Assistant Director, Mark Faison, said enrolment agents act on behalf of NIMC and must not abuse the trust placed in them by engaging in fraudulent registrations.
He expressed concern over reports that some non-Nigerians had been issued Nigerian identity credentials through compromised enrolment processes, describing the practice as a serious national security threat.
NIMC Director-General, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, also stressed the need for stricter security measures as Nigeria’s digital identity system expands across sectors such as banking, telecommunications, healthcare and social intervention programmes.
She warned that only NIMC-approved software and platforms would be permitted within the identity ecosystem, adding that the commission would intensify audits and compliance checks to prevent data breaches and identity fraud.
Coker-Odusote further disclosed that security agencies are closely monitoring enrolment centres nationwide, while operators found violating established standards would face sanctions.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity of Nigeria’s identity database and ensuring that all biometric and personal records meet required security and compliance standards.