The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has announced plans to commence a nationwide ward-level enrollment exercise for the National Identification Number (NIN), in what it describes as a major step toward deepening identity inclusion across Nigeria.
According to a press statement issued on February 11, 2026, the exercise will officially begin on Monday, February 16, 2026, and will take registration directly to communities at the ward level across the country.
The Commission stated that the initiative is in line with a presidential directive mandating NIMC to expand NIN enrollment to the grassroots. The ward-level registration will be conducted free of charge and is designed to capture every Nigerian citizen and legal resident, including children and adults, into the National Identity Database.
NIMC explained that the move aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aimed at promoting inclusive governance, national development, and improved access to identity services.
Describing the ward-level enrollment as a strategic decentralization effort, the Commission said the initiative would reduce the travel burden on citizens, improve accessibility, and encourage nationwide participation in the identity registration process.
NIMC has begun engaging key stakeholders at national, state, and local government levels to ensure a smooth rollout. Traditional rulers, community leaders, market associations, faith-based organizations, and local government authorities are being mobilized to support sensitization and awareness campaigns on the benefits and uses of the NIN.
Members of the public are urged to take advantage of the ward-to-ward exercise to enroll their children, parents, and other family members who are yet to obtain a NIN.
The Commission disclosed that ward enrollment schedules, which will guide the rotational movement of licensed front-end partners and NIMC staff, are available on its official website.
For inquiries, assistance, or complaints, the public can contact the NIMC toll-free line: 08000616462.
The statement was signed by Dr. Kayode Adegoke, Head, Corporate Communications, on behalf of the Commission.
