How to check NIN (National identity Number)

Knowing how to check NIN can save you time and hassle in many official processes. The National Identity Number (NIN) is a unique identification number issued to Nigerian citizens and residents by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). It’s essential for a variety of activities, such as obtaining a driver’s license, opening a bank account, and even applying for a passport.

What is the National Identity Number (NIN)?

The National Identity Number (NIN) is a unique 11-digit number assigned to every individual who registers with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) in Nigeria. It serves as a unique identifier for citizens and legal residents. The NIN is tied to the person’s demographic data and biometric information, which includes fingerprints and facial recognition.

Key Features of the NIN

• 11-Digit Unique Number: Each NIN is unique and serves as a permanent identifier.
• Linked to Biometric Data: Includes personal information such as fingerprints and facial data.
• Required for Various Services: Used in various official and legal transactions like obtaining a passport, opening bank accounts, and more.

Why You Need to Know Your NIN

Knowing your NIN is crucial because it is now required for many activities in Nigeria. Here are some situations where your NIN will be necessary:

• Applying for a Passport: The Nigerian Immigration Service mandates that your NIN is linked to your passport.
• Opening a Bank Account: Financial institutions require your NIN to comply with regulatory requirements.
• Driver’s License Application: Your NIN is needed to apply for or renew a driver’s license.
• SIM Card Registration: All mobile network operators require your NIN to register or reactivate a SIM card.

How to Register for a NIN

If you don’t have a NIN yet, follow these steps to get registered:

1. Visit an Enrollment Center: Locate a nearby NIMC enrollment center. You can find the list of centers on the NIMC website.
2. Fill the Registration Form: Complete the enrollment form with your personal information, including name, date of birth, address, and other relevant details.
3. Submit Your Biometrics: Provide your fingerprints, headshot photograph, and other required biometric data.
4. Receive Your NIN Slip: After the registration process, you’ll be given a slip with your NIN.

Methods on How to Check NIN on Glo, MTN, Airtel and 9mobile

Using USSD Code

One of the simplest ways to check your NIN is by using your mobile phone. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Dial the USSD Code: On your mobile phone, dial *346#.
2. Follow the Instructions: You will be asked to select the option for ‘NIN Retrieval’ by typing in the appropriate number.
3. Confirmation: After confirming your request, your NIN will be displayed on the screen. Make sure you have enough airtime as this service may incur a small fee.

Note: This service works only if the SIM card you are using is linked to your NIN.

How to Check NIN on Glo

Step 1: Dial the USSD Code

To check your NIN on Glo, you need to dial a specific USSD code on your mobile phone. Here’s how:

1. Open your phone’s dialer app.
2. Dial *346#.
3. Press the call button.

This action will initiate a request to retrieve your NIN.

Step 2: Follow the On-Screen Instructions

Once you’ve dialed the code, you’ll see a series of on-screen prompts. Follow these instructions carefully:

1. If your NIN is linked to your Glo number, it will be displayed on the screen.
2. If your NIN is not linked, you will receive a notification stating that the NIN is not found.

Step 3: Note Down Your NIN

If your NIN is displayed on the screen, make sure to write it down or take a screenshot for future reference. This number is important for various official purposes.

Step 4: how to Link NIN to Glo Number (If Not Already Done)

If your NIN is not linked to your Glo number, you can easily link it using one of the following methods:

Method 1: Using the Glo NIN Portal

1. Visit the Glo NIN Portal: Go to the official Glo NIN portal: Glo NIN Link Portal.
2. Enter Your Glo Number: Provide your Glo mobile number in the required field.
3. Enter Your NIN: Input your 11-digit NIN in the specified section.
4. Submit the Form: Click on the submit button to complete the process.

Method 2: Using the Glo NIN USSD Code

1. Dial *109*NIN# on your Glo number.
2. Press the call button.
3. Wait for confirmation: You will receive a message confirming that your NIN has been successfully linked to your Glo number.

Common Issues and How to Resolve Them

Issue 1: Invalid NIN Response

If you receive an “Invalid NIN” response, it could mean that your NIN is not correctly registered in the NIMC database or there might be a typographical error. To resolve this:

1. Double-check Your NIN: Ensure that the 11-digit number you entered is correct.
2. Visit a NIMC Center: If the problem persists, visit a NIMC enrollment center to verify your NIN status.

Issue 2: NIN Not Linked

If your NIN is not linked to your Glo number, you can link it by following the steps outlined above. Ensure that your NIN is active and correctly registered before attempting to link.

Issue 3: USSD Code Not Working

If the USSD code *346# doesn’t work:

1. Check Network Coverage: Ensure you have good network coverage.
2. Try Again Later: Network issues may cause temporary service disruptions. Wait for a few minutes and try again.

How to Check NIN on 9mobile

There are several methods available to check your NIN status on 9mobile. These include using a USSD code, the NIMC mobile app, or visiting a 9mobile service center.

Using USSD Code

The simplest and most convenient way to check your NIN on 9mobile is by using the USSD code provided by the network. Follow these steps:

1. Dial the USSD Code: On your 9mobile line, dial *346#.
2. Follow the Prompt: You will receive a prompt to either check your NIN status or retrieve your NIN.
3. Select Option 1: Choose the option to check your NIN. You may be charged a small fee for this service.
4. Receive NIN Status: Your NIN status will be displayed on your screen.

Checking at a 9mobile Service Center

If you are unable to use the USSD code or the mobile app, you can visit a 9mobile service center to check your NIN status. Here’s what to do:

1. Locate a Service Center: Find the nearest 9mobile service center to your location.
2. Visit the Center with Valid ID: Go with a valid ID and your 9mobile number.
3. Request for NIN Status Check: Speak to a customer service representative and request a NIN status check for your number.

How to Link NIN to 9mobile Number

If you discover that your NIN is not linked to your 9mobile number, you can easily link it by following these steps:

1. Using USSD Code:
   • Dial *200*8# on your 9mobile line.
   • Enter your 11-digit NIN when prompted.
   • Confirm the details and submit.
2. Through the 9mobile Website:
   • Visit the 9mobile NIN linking portal.
   • Enter your 9mobile number and NIN.
   • Submit and wait for a confirmation message.
3. At a 9mobile Service Center:
   • Visit the nearest service center with your NIN slip and a valid ID.
   • Request to link your NIN to your 9mobile number.

Methods on How to Check NIN on Airtel

There are several convenient methods to check your NIN on Airtel. Each method is easy to follow and doesn’t require technical expertise.

Via Using USSD Code:

The most straightforward way to check your NIN on Airtel is through a USSD code. Follow these steps:

1. Dial *346# on your Airtel line.
2. Select option 1 to retrieve your NIN.
3. If your NIN is linked to your Airtel number, it will be displayed on your screen.
4. If not, you will receive a message indicating that your NIN is not linked to the number.

Note: A service fee may apply for this transaction.

Via Airtel Customer Care:

If you cannot access your NIN using the USSD code, you can contact Airtel customer care for assistance. Here’s how:

1. Dial 111 from your Airtel line to reach customer care.
2. Follow the prompts to speak with a customer care representative.
3. Provide your details, such as your name, phone number, and date of birth.
4. The representative will assist you in checking your NIN status.

Airtel Store or Service Center:

For a more personal touch, you can visit any Airtel store or service center. The staff will assist you in checking and linking your NIN. Remember to bring a valid ID and any other necessary documentation.

How to Link NIN to Airtel Number

If your NIN is not yet linked to your Airtel number, follow the steps below to complete the process. Linking your NIN is essential to comply with regulatory requirements and avoid disconnection.

Using USSD Code

1. Dial *121*1# from your Airtel line.
2. Select the option to link your NIN.
3. Enter your 11-digit NIN.
4. Confirm your submission and wait for a confirmation message.

How to Check NIN on MTN via USSD Code

If you have already enrolled for your NIN but cannot remember it, MTN provides a simple way to check it using a USSD code. Follow these steps:

1. Dial the USSD Code: On your MTN line, dial *346#.
2. Select Option 1: You will see a menu. Select option 1 to retrieve your NIN.
3. Confirm Your Request: You may be asked to confirm the request and provide some additional details.
4. Receive Your NIN: After a few seconds, your NIN will be displayed on your screen. Note it down or take a screenshot for future reference.

Note: You may be charged a small fee for this service.

How to Retrieve NIN Online

If you prefer to check your NIN online, you can do so via the NIMC (National Identity Management Commission) portal. Here’s how:

1. Visit the NIMC Portal: Go to the NIMC NIN Retrieval Portal.
2. Login/Register: If you have an account, log in. If not, create an account using your details.
3. Check NIN Status: Once logged in, go to the NIN Retrieval section and enter your details as required.
4. View Your NIN: Your NIN will be displayed on the screen. You can print it or save it as a PDF.

How to Link NIN to MTN Line

Linking your NIN to your MTN line is crucial for uninterrupted services. Here’s how you can do it:

Method 1: Using the USSD Code

1. Dial *785# on Your MTN Line: This will open the NIN linking menu.
2. Enter Your NIN: When prompted, enter your 11-digit NIN.
3. Confirm: Confirm the NIN you have entered is correct.
4. Submission Successful: You will receive a message confirming that your NIN has been successfully linked to your MTN line.

Method 2: Through SMS

1. Compose a New SMS: Open the messaging app on your phone and create a new message.
2. Send Your NIN: Send your NIN to 785 in this format: NIN 12345678901 (Replace 12345678901 with your actual NIN).
3. Receive Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation message once your NIN is successfully linked.

Method 3: Using the MyMTN App

1. Download and Open the MyMTN App: If you don’t have it, download the MyMTN app from the app store and log in.
2. Go to the NIN Section: Navigate to the NIN linking section within the app.
3. Enter Your NIN: Input your NIN and submit.
4. Receive Confirmation: A confirmation message will be sent once the NIN is linked.

How the Check NIN via NIMC Mobile App

The NIMC Mobile App is another convenient way to access your NIN information. Here’s how to use it:

1. Download the NIMC Mobile App: Get the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Login or Create an Account: Use your NIN or registered phone number to create an account or log in.
3. View Your NIN: Once logged in, you can view your NIN along with your digital ID card.

Visiting a NIMC Office

If you are unable to retrieve your NIN through the methods mentioned above, visiting a NIMC office is another option. Follow these steps:

1. Locate the Nearest NIMC Office: Visit the NIMC website to find the nearest office.
2. Provide Necessary Information: You will need to provide some personal details like your full name, date of birth, and phone number.
3. Get Assistance: A NIMC official will assist you in retrieving your NIN.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What should I do if I forget my NIN?

If you forget your NIN, you can retrieve it using the USSD code *346# or by visiting a NIMC office.

2. Can I check my NIN online without a mobile app?

Currently, there is no online portal to check your NIN directly without using the mobile app or visiting a NIMC office.

3. Is there a fee for checking my NIN?

Using the USSD code *346# to check your NIN may incur a small fee, depending on your mobile network provider.

4. Can I check my NIN with a different phone number?

You can only use the USSD code with the phone number that is linked to your NIN. For other numbers, you will need to visit a NIMC office.

5. Can I link more than one phone number to my NIN?

Yes, you can link multiple phone numbers to your NIN by visiting a NIMC office.