Nigeria to Launch Ward-Level Enrollment for Identity Numbers on February 16

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has revealed plans to kick off ward-level enrollment for the National Identification Number (NIN) across the country on Monday, February 16, 2026.

This initiative comes in response to a presidential directive aimed at enhancing NIN registration at the grassroots level to ensure that a greater number of Nigerians and legal residents are incorporated into the National Identity Database.

In a statement from Dr. Kayode Adegoke, the Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC, the commission emphasized that this ward-level enrollment is targeted at achieving complete registration of all citizens and legal residents, including both children and adults, and participation will be free of charge.

This move supports the Federal Government's Renewed Hope Agenda led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which seeks to foster inclusive governance, enhance national development, and increase access to identity services.

NIMC highlighted that this rollout is a crucial measure in decentralizing identity services and enhancing their accessibility, particularly for individuals living in rural and underserved areas. By situating enrollment centers closer to communities, the commission hopes to alleviate travel challenges and encourage broader engagement.

To prepare for the initiative, NIMC has begun consulting with key stakeholders at the national, state, and local government levels. Ongoing sensitization and awareness programs aim to inform the public about the advantages and significance of obtaining a NIN.

The commission has been collaborating with state governments, local government councils, traditional leaders, community representatives, market organizations, and faith-based groups to facilitate a smooth implementation process across all wards nationwide.

NIMC urged Nigerians and legal residents who have not yet registered to seize this opportunity and encouraged families to include their children, parents, and other dependents in the enrollment process.

Details regarding the ward enrollment schedule, which will outline the rotational movements of licensed partners and NIMC staff, can be found on the commission’s official website.

For further inquiries, assistance, or to report any issues, members of the public are encouraged to reach out to NIMC via its toll-free number.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to broadening identity coverage nationwide and fortifying the national database as a foundational element for effective planning, service delivery, and economic inclusion.