3 easy ways on How to check NIN Number
How to check NIN Number – Checking your National Identification Number (NIN) is essential for various transactions in Nigeria. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to check NIN number using different methods.
What is NIN?
The National Identification Number (NIN) is a unique identifier assigned to Nigerian citizens and residents by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). It is crucial for identity verification in various official transactions.
Read: How Important is a NIN Code in Nigeria?
How to Check NIN Number via USSD
To check your NIN number, use the USSD code 346#. This method works across all mobile networks in Nigeria.
1. Dial the USSD Code: Open your phone’s dialer and enter *346#.
2. Select NIN Retrieval: Choose the option for “NIN Retrieval” by entering ‘1’.
3. Receive Your NIN: After confirming your request, your NIN will be displayed on the screen. Note that this service incurs a fee of ₦20.
How to Check NIN Number Online
If you prefer checking your NIN online, follow these steps:
1. Visit the NIMC Website: Go to the official NIMC portal.
2. Enter Your Mobile Number: Input the phone number linked to your NIN.
3. Receive Your NIN: You will receive a text message containing your NIN.
How to Check NIN Number Using the NIMC Mobile App
The NIMC mobile app also allows you to check your NIN:
1. Download the App: Install the NIMC MWS Mobile App from your app store.
2. Get User ID and OTP: Open the app and click on “I need a pin” to obtain your user ID and OTP.
3. Access Your NIN Details: Use the user ID and OTP to log in to the NIMC portal and view your details.
Importance of Checking Your NIN
Regularly checking your National Identification Number (NIN) is crucial for several reasons:
1. Accuracy: Verifying your NIN ensures that the information linked to your identity is accurate and up to date. This is essential for seamless transactions and access to services.
2. Financial transactions: The NIN is a prerequisite for various financial activities, including opening bank accounts, obtaining loans, and conducting large-scale transactions. Checking your NIN helps prevent discrepancies in financial records.
3. Access to government services: Many government services and benefits are linked to the NIN, and its verification is imperative for accessing these provisions. From healthcare services to social welfare programs, the NIN serves as a means of authentication.
4. Mobile services: The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has made it mandatory for all mobile phone users to link their NIN to their SIM. Verifying your NIN is a prerequisite for uninterrupted use of mobile services, and failure to do so can lead to the disconnection of SIM cards.
5. Identity authentication: In an era where digital identity theft and fraud are prevalent, verifying your NIN is a proactive measure to safeguard your identity. By ensuring that the information associated with your NIN is accurate, you reduce the risk of unauthorized access and misuse of your personal data.
How can I ensure my NIN is linked to my phone number
To ensure your National Identification Number (NIN) is linked to your phone number, you can follow these steps:
1. Check if your NIN is already linked
- Dial *346# on your phone and select “NIN Retrieval”
- You will receive a message with your linked phone number if it is already connected
2. Link your NIN if it is not already
- Dial *996# on your 9mobile line, select “1” to confirm linkage or “2” to link your 11-digit NIN
- Dial *785*your NIN# on your MTN line
- Dial *121*1# on your Airtel line
- Dial *109# on your Glo line and follow the prompts
- Alternatively, you can visit your network’s website and submit your NIN details
3. Verify successful linkage
- After linking, you should receive a confirmation message from your network
- If you don’t receive a confirmation, repeat the linking process
4. Use the NIMC Mobile App
- Download the “MWS: NIMC Mobile ID” app and enter your NIN and phone number
- Create a 6-digit PIN and follow the prompts to link your number
Regularly checking and ensuring your NIN is correctly linked to your phone number is crucial to avoid service disruption. If you face any issues, contact your network’s customer care for assistance.
Are there any fees associated with linking my NIN to my phone number
There are no direct fees charged by the mobile networks for linking your National Identification Number (NIN) to your phone number. However, there may be some indirect costs:
1. USSD charges: When using the USSD code method to link your NIN, your mobile network may deduct a small fee (usually ₦20) from your airtime balance for the USSD session.
2. Data charges: If you choose to link your NIN online through your network’s website or mobile app, you may incur data charges depending on your data plan.
3. Time and effort: While the actual process of linking your NIN is quick and easy, it may take some time and effort to gather the necessary information and follow the steps.
It’s important to note that failing to link your NIN to your phone number can lead to service disruption, as the government has mandated that all SIMs must be linked to a NIN. Therefore, the cost of not linking your NIN could be much higher than the indirect fees mentioned above.
Conclusion
Knowing how to check NIN number is vital for every Nigerian. Whether using USSD, online, or through the mobile app, the process is straightforward and essential for maintaining your identity verification needs. Always ensure you have sufficient airtime or internet access when attempting to retrieve your NIN.
