How to Get Nigeria National Identity Card: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

The Nigeria National Identity Card is a crucial document that every citizen and legal resident should possess. It serves as a means of verifying your identity and accessing certain services and benefits provided by the government. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of obtaining the Nigeria National Identity Card.

Step 1: Register for the National Identity Number (NIN)

The first step in obtaining the Nigeria National Identity Card is to register for the National Identity Number (NIN). To do this, visit any of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) enrollment centers located throughout the country. You will be required to provide your personal information such as your full name, date of birth, and address.

Step 2: Collect your Temporary Identity Slip

After registering for the NIN, you will be given a Temporary Identity Slip which contains your NIN number. This slip is important as it serves as proof that you have registered for the NIN.

Step 3: Wait for the issuance of the National Identity Card

The National Identity Card is issued to individuals who have registered for the NIN and have completed the necessary verification process. Once your application has been processed and approved, you will be notified and asked to come to the NIMC office to collect your card.

Step 4: Collect your National Identity Card

When you are notified that your National Identity Card is ready, visit the NIMC office where you registered for the NIN and present your Temporary Identity Slip along with any other required documents. Your National Identity Card will then be issued to you.

Required Documents

To obtain the Nigeria National Identity Card, you will need to provide the following documents:

Birth certificate or declaration of age
Valid means of identification such as a driver's license or international passport
Proof of address such as utility bills or bank statements
Two recent passport photographs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I register for the National Identity Number online?
No, registration for the National Identity Number can only be done at any of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) enrollment centers located throughout the country.
Is the National Identity Number the same as the National Identity Card?
No, the National Identity Number (NIN) is a unique identification number issued to individuals while the National Identity Card is a physical document that contains the individual's NIN.
How long does it take to get the National Identity Card?
The processing time for the National Identity Card can vary depending on the number of applications received by the NIMC. However, it usually takes between 6-12 months to obtain the card.
What happens if I lose my National Identity Card?
If you lose your National Identity Card, you should report it immediately to the NIMC and follow the necessary steps to obtain a replacement card.
Is it mandatory to have the National Identity Card?
While it is not mandatory to have the National Identity Card, it is highly recommended as it serves as proof of identity and can be used to access certain services and benefits provided by the government.

Conclusion

Obtaining the Nigeria National Identity Card is a relatively straightforward process that involves registering for the National Identity Number and completing the necessary verification process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can obtain your National Identity Card and enjoy the benefits that come with it.