The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has terminated more than 100 front-end partners (FEPs) following credible allegations of extortion during National Identity Number (NIN) registrations.
These agents reportedly charged unauthorised fees, contravening NIMC’s strict zero-tolerance policy on exploitation.
In Lagos, NIMC officials revealed that incidents of illicit charges and unofficial payments have dropped by a substantial 40%, a decline attributed to recent operational reforms and enhanced oversight of registration centres. The commission emphasised that enrolment remains completely free, and only standardised fees for modifications and authentication are legally permissible.
Director-General Abisoye Coker-Odusote underscored the introduction of digital tools as pivotal to curbing racketeering in the enrolment process. Innovations such as the NINAuth mobile app, Self-Service enrolment and modification platforms, and contactless biometric solutions have reduced human interference and improved transparency.
Since her appointment, Coker-Odusote has overseen the revalidation and retraining of over 7,100 front-end agents. The commission has also instituted grievance officers in all 36 states and activated a 24/7 toll-free line to streamline complaints and enhance public trust.
NIMC’s leadership reaffirmed its dedication to building a reliable, people‑centric digital identity system aimed at advancing access to government services, financial inclusion, social protection, and effective planning. Citizens have been urged to report any exploitative behaviour during the registration process, reinforcing the call for accountability and ethical service delivery.
