Your National Identification Number (NIN) is a unique 11-digit number issued to you as a citizen and legal resident by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) in Nigeria. It serves as a crucial means of identification for various transactions, including SIM registration, banking, passport applications, and government services. See How to Check Your BVN.

If you’ve forgotten or misplaced your NIN, don’t worry—there are several ways to retrieve it. In this guide, I will show you the official methods to check your NIN quickly and securely.

Why Is Your NIN Important?

Before telling you how to check your NIN, let’s briefly highlight its significance:

• Mandatory for SIM registration (linking your phone number to your identity).
• Required for international passports, driver’s licenses, and voter registration.
• Essential for accessing government services and financial transactions.
• Helps prevent identity theft and fraud.

Since your NIN is tied to critical services, keeping it safe and accessible is vital.

How to Check Your NIN

1. Check Your NIN via USSD Code (For Mobile Phones)

The easiest way to retrieve your NIN is by dialing a USSD code from the phone number registered with your NIN.

Steps:

1. **Dial **346#* on the mobile number linked to your NIN.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Select “NIN Retrieval” and enter the required details (if prompted).
4. Your NIN will be displayed on your screen.
5. You may also receive an SMS containing your NIN.

Note:

• This service may cost ₦20 (deducted from your airtime).
• Only works on the phone number registered with your NIN.

2. Check Your NIN Online via the NIMC Portal

If you’ve enrolled for the NIN and have a profile on the NIMC website, you can retrieve your NIN online.

Steps:

1. Visit the NIMC official portal: https://nimc.gov.ng.
2. Click on “NIN Retrieval” or “Check Your NIN”.
3. Enter your first name, last name, and email/phone number linked to your NIN.
4. Submit the details and wait for verification.
5. Your NIN will be sent to your registered email or phone number.

Note:

• Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
• If you encounter issues, try using the NIMC Mobile App (available on Google Play and Apple Store).

3. Visit an NIMC Enrollment Center

If the USSD and online methods don’t work, you can physically visit an NIMC enrollment center near you.

Steps:

1. Locate the nearest NIMC office via the NIMC website or Google Maps.
2. Bring a valid ID (e.g., voter’s card, driver’s license, or passport).
3. Request for NIN retrieval from an NIMC official.
4. After verification, your NIN will be provided.

Note:

• There may be a small fee for this service.
• Be prepared for possible queues—arrive early.

4. Check Your NIN Slip or Card

If you’ve previously enrolled, your NIN slip or card contains your 11-digit number.

• NIN Slip: A paper document issued after enrollment.
• NIN Card: A plastic card with your NIN boldly printed on it.

If you’ve lost both, follow the previous methods to retrieve it.

What If My NIN Is Not Found?

If you can’t retrieve your NIN using any of these methods, it may mean:

• You haven’t enrolled yet (visit an NIMC center for registration).
• Your details were not properly captured (contact NIMC support).
• The phone number linked to your NIN has changed (update your records at an NIMC office).

Conclusion

Your NIN is a vital identity tool in Nigeria, and knowing how to retrieve it ensures seamless access to essential services. Whether through USSD, online portals, or physical visits, keeping your NIN secure and accessible is crucial.

If you haven’t registered for your NIN yet, visit the nearest NIMC enrollment center with your BVN, birth certificate, or valid ID to get started.