Ah, checking your National Identification Number (NIN) in Nigeria. A process that can be as daunting as trying to understand the lyrics of a Terry G song. But fear not, my friend. Checking your NIN number in Nigeria is actually pretty straightforward.
And today, I’m going to guide you through the process of how to check NIN number on either your Airtel, MTN, 9Mobile or GLO. So sit back, relax, and let’s get this NIN number business over with!
What is a NIN Number?
First things first, let’s talk about why you need a NIN number in the first place.
The NIN is a unique identification number that the Nigerian government issues to every citizen and a legal resident of Nigeria.
It’s like a social security number in the United States or a National Insurance number in the United Kingdom.
It serves as a means of identification and helps to prevent identity theft and fraud.
The Nigerian government has made it mandatory for citizens to link their NIN to their phone numbers and bank accounts.
Apart from linking it with your bank account, you also use it to register for exams and even apply for a passport. It’s one of those things you never really think about until you need it, and then it becomes the most important thing in the world.
It is also used to obtain a driver’s license and register for the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
Failure to update or verify your NIN could lead to complications and delays in accessing these services.
How to Check Your NIN Number (On Airtel, Mtn, 9 Mobile, And Glo)
Generally, there are several ways to check your NIN number, and we will explore them below:
- USSD code: You can check your NIN number by dialing *346# on your mobile phone. This service is available on all networks in Nigeria and is free of charge.
- NIMC mobile app: The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has a mobile app that you can use to check your NIN number. You can download the app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. Once you download the app, you will need to provide your first name, last name, and phone number to access your NIN number.
- NIMC website: You can also check your NIN number on the NIMC website (www.nimc.gov.ng). To do this, you will need to create an account on the website and provide your first name, last name, and phone number. Once you have registered, you can access your NIN number.
- Bank verification: If you have linked your NIN number to your bank account, you can check your NIN number by logging into your bank’s internet banking platform or mobile app. Your NIN number should be displayed on your account details page.
- NIMC enrollment slip: If you have lost your NIN number or are unable to access it through any of the methods above, you can retrieve it from your NIMC enrollment slip. This slip contains your NIN number and other important information about your identity. If you do not have your enrollment slip, you can visit any NIMC enrollment center to obtain a new one.
How To Check NIN Number (On Airtel, Mtn, 9 Mobile, And Glo)
1. Airtel
If you’re an Airtel subscriber in Nigeria and you need to check your National Identification Number (NIN), there are a few simple steps you can follow:
Step 1: Dial *121# from your Airtel line.
Step 2: Select “NIN Retrieval” from the menu options.
Step 3: Enter “1” to “Verify your NIN” or “2” to “Retrieve your NIN.”
Step 4: If you chose “Verify your NIN,” enter your 11-digit NIN number and follow the prompts to confirm it.
Step 5: If you chose “Retrieve your NIN”, enter the phone number that you used to register for your NIN and follow the prompts to retrieve your NIN.
Step 6: Once you have verified or retrieved your NIN, you will receive a message containing your NIN number.
It’s important to note that you will need to have sufficient credit on your Airtel line to complete these steps. You can contact Airtel customer service for assistance if you have any issues or questions.
2. MTN
If you’re an MTN subscriber in Nigeria and you need to check your National Identification Number (NIN), there are a few simple steps you can follow:
Step 1: Dial *785# from your MTN line.
Step 2: Select “NIN Retrieval” from the menu options.
Step 3: Enter “1” to “Verify your NIN” or “2” to “Retrieve your NIN.”
Step 4: If you chose “Verify your NIN,” enter your 11-digit NIN number and follow the prompts to confirm it.
Step 5: If you chose “Retrieve your NIN”, enter the phone number that you used to register for your NIN and follow the prompts to retrieve your NIN.
Step 6: Once you have verified or retrieved your NIN, you will receive a message containing your NIN number.
You will need to have sufficient credit on your MTN line to complete these steps. You can contact MTN customer service for assistance if you have any issues or questions.
3. 9 Mobile
First things first, you’ll need to have your 9 mobile line with you. If you don’t have one, well, that’s a bit of a problem.
But if you do, make sure it’s charged up and ready to go. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Dial *966# from your 9mobile line.
Step 2: Select “NIN Retrieval” from the menu options.
Step 3: Enter “1” to “Verify your NIN” or “2” to “Retrieve your NIN.”
Step 4: If you chose “Verify your NIN,” enter your 11-digit NIN number and follow the prompts to confirm it.
Step 5: If you chose “Retrieve your NIN”, enter the phone number that you used to register for your NIN and follow the prompts to retrieve your NIN.
Step 6: Once you have verified or retrieved your NIN, you will receive a message containing your NIN number.
It’s important to note that you will need to have sufficient credit on your 9mobile line to complete these steps. You can contact 9mobile customer service for assistance if you have any issues or questions.
4. GLO
First of all, make sure you have your Glo line with you and that it’s recharged and ready to go.
Then, follow these steps:
Step 1: Dial *346# from your Glo line.
Step 2: Select “NIN Retrieval” from the menu options.
Step 3: Enter “1” to “Verify your NIN” or “2” to “Retrieve your NIN.”
Step 4: If you chose “Verify your NIN,” enter your 11-digit NIN number and follow the prompts to confirm it.
Step 5: If you chose “Retrieve your NIN”, enter the phone number that you used to register for your NIN and follow the prompts to retrieve your NIN.
Step 6: Once you have verified or retrieved your NIN, you will receive a message containing your NIN number.
You can contact Glo customer service for assistance if you have any issues or questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is A NIN Number, And Why Is It Important?
A NIN number is a unique identification number issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to every Nigerian citizen and legal resident. It is important because it serves as a means of identification, simplifies the process of accessing government services, and helps to reduce fraud.
How Can I Check My NIN Number Online?
To check your NIN number online, you can visit the NIMC website (www.nimc.gov.ng) and click on the “e-ID Card Status Portal” tab. You will be required to enter your First name, Last name, and your National Identification Number to check the status of your NIN.
What If I Lose My NIN number?
If you have lost your NIN number, you can still retrieve it by visiting any NIMC registration center with a valid means of identification, such as your driver’s license, international passport, or voter’s card.
How Long Does It Take To Get A NIN number?
The process of obtaining a NIN number can take several weeks or even months. It involves submitting your personal information and biometric data to the NIMC registration center, after which your application will be processed, and your NIN number will be issued.
What documents Do I Need To Check My NIN number?
To check your NIN number, you will need your First name, Last name, and your National Identification Number. If you do not have your NIN number, you will need a valid means of identification, such as your driver’s license, international passport, or voter’s card.
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Conclusion
One last thing to note: Don’t worry too much if you need help remembering your NIN number. You can always write it down and keep it in a safe place, like your wallet or a secret compartment in your sock drawer.
Just don’t forget where you put it, or you’ll end up tearing your house apart like a madman searching for the elusive piece of paper with your NIN number on it. Trust me, and I’ve been there.
Well, that’s about all the wisdom I have to offer on how to check NIN number. I hope this guide has been helpful. Check back some other time.