NIMC faults Immigration on non-use of NIN channels

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) yesterday faulted the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) for not utilising agreed channels to verify the National Identity Numbers (NIN) of Passport applicants.

The Commission said it launched the improved NIN slip with QR Code and Mobile ID app to ensure that alternative channels for identity verification are provided.

NIMC, in a statement by its Head of Corporate Communications Mr Kayode Adegoke, said: “These new channels put personal identity back in the hands of the ID holder and allow for easier and quick verification by simply scanning the barcode.

“All existing and prospective verification agents (all agencies of the government and the private sector) are expected to utilise these available channels including the mobile web service (MWS) to verify the identities of their customers.

“The recent reports of the purported inability of Nigerian Immigration Services (NIS) to verify NINs of passport applicants has shown that these alternative verification channels are not being utilised to serve their teeming customers.

“It behoves on NIS to leverage these channels and the jointly agreed offline method for handling NIN verification requests for passport applicants.

“The Commission wishes to reiterate that the improved NIS slip and mobile ID app are credible and reliable channels to carry out NIN verification services.

“With a focus on the digital economy policy of the Federal Government, the Commission will continue to offer innovative solutions for digital ID usage and seamless services to support identification for development.”