How to Check Your NIN Number on MTN, Glo, Airtel, 9mobile & Online (September 2024)

In Nigeria, linking your National Identity Number (NIN) with your phone number is mandatory, as telecom operators like MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile are required by law to block SIM cards that are not linked to a valid NIN. If you haven’t linked your NIN yet or can’t recall it, you risk having your SIM card blocked. This guide explains how you can easily check your NIN across major mobile networks and online.

What is NIN & How Does it Work?

Before diving into how to check your NIN, it’s essential to understand what the NIN is. The National Identity Number (NIN) is an 11-digit unique identifier assigned to Nigerian citizens and legal residents after successful enrollment with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). The NIMC collects your demographic details, biometric data (fingerprints, facial image, and signature), and stores them securely in a database. Once you are assigned a NIN, it remains linked to your personal information for life.

Why is the NIN Important?

The NIN is a key tool for identifying and verifying individuals for a wide range of services in Nigeria. Here are some critical areas where your NIN is required:

• Government Services: To obtain a National e-ID card, apply for a passport, or register to vote, you need your NIN.
• Financial Services: Opening a bank account, applying for loans, or making investments often require your NIN.
• Healthcare: Enrolling in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) or other healthcare services requires a NIN.
• Employment: Some employers may ask for your NIN during job applications.
• Education: Certain educational institutions may require the NIN for admissions or registration.
• The NIN also helps prevent identity fraud by verifying that you are who you claim to be when you access services like banking or government programs.

Benefits of the NIN

The NIN offers numerous benefits for both individuals and society at large:

For Individuals:

• Prevents identity theft: Ensures your identity is secure when accessing services.
• Simplifies service access: Makes it easier to engage with both government and private services.
• Improves financial inclusion: Required for banking services and other financial activities.
• Enhances healthcare access: Helps in obtaining healthcare services under NHIS.
• Protects personal rights: Verifies your identity in legal and civil matters.

For Society:

• Reduces crime and insecurity: Helps identify individuals and reduce fraudulent activities.
• Improves planning and budgeting: Provides the government with accurate demographic data.
• Promotes social justice: Ensures equal access to services.
• Supports economic development: Boosts financial and social infrastructure by improving identity verification.

How to Get Your NIN

To obtain your NIN, you must visit a NIMC enrolment center. The process is simple, free (except for the cost of printing or lamination, which is around ₦100), and available to individuals aged 16 or older. Here’s what you need:

• Documents Required to Register for NIN:
• Bank Verification Number (BVN) (if applicable).
• Any one of the following documents:
• Old National ID Card
• Driver’s License
• Voter’s Card (Temporary or Permanent)
• Nigerian International Passport
• Certificate of Origin
• Birth Certificate
• School ID Card
• Tax Clearance Certificate
• Valid immigration documents (for legal residents)
• Other government-issued ID cards

Once registered, your NIN will be linked to your bio-data, and you can use it for life.

How to Check Your NIN Number on MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile

Checking your NIN on any of these networks is straightforward. You can do it right from your phone’s dialer by following these steps:

Steps to Check Your NIN:

• Launch the Dialer App: Open the dialer app on your phone.
• Dial *346#: This code works across all major networks, including MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile.
• Select “NIN Retrieval” (Option 1): After dialing the code, you’ll see options. Choose the NIN retrieval option.
• Confirm Payment: You’ll be notified that the service costs ₦20, which will be deducted from your airtime balance.
• Proceed: If you have sufficient airtime, select the option to proceed.
• Get Your NIN: Your NIN will be displayed on the screen.

This method is quick and works for all major telecom operators in Nigeria.

How to Check Your NIN Number Online

If you don’t want to check your NIN via your mobile network, you can easily do so online through the NIMC website. Here’s how:

Steps to Check Your NIN Online:

• Visit the NIMC Website: Go to https://www.nimc.gov.ng.
• Select “NIN Retrieval”: On the homepage, click the NIN retrieval option.
• Enter Your Phone Number: Provide the phone number linked to your NIN.
• Click “Get NIN”: You will receive a text message with your NIN number.

Make sure you have funds available, as there may be a small fee for checking your NIN online.

Conclusion

Linking your NIN to your phone number is essential to avoid the risk of having your SIM card blocked. If you haven’t done so, it’s crucial to check your NIN and make sure it’s linked to your mobile number. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can quickly check your NIN on MTN, Glo, Airtel, 9mobile, or online. If you haven’t registered for a NIN yet, head to the nearest NIMC enrolment center with the necessary documents and get your NIN today.