In Nigeria, each citizen and lawful resident is assigned a unique National Identification Number (NIN) for streamlined identification. This NIN-SIM linkage process is designed to offer you a secure means of authenticating both your phone number and identity, an imperative step in today’s digital age.
The Nigerian telecommunications regulatory body has mandated the linkage of NIN with SIM cards, with plans to deactivate unlinked SIMs by February 2024. To assist you in navigating this essential task, Streetsofkante has compiled a comprehensive guide outlining the steps to link your NIN to your SIM card for the four major mobile network operators: MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile.
How to Link Your NIN to Your MTN:
Method 1: NIN Information Center of MTN
Visit MTN’s NIN Information Center page and click on “Link my NIN.” Fill in the required form with details such as your email address, VNIN, and MTN mobile number.
Remember the VNIN:
💡 Per NIMC directive, a Virtual National Identification Number (VNIN) is necessary for all SIM-related services, and your NIN is required to generate one. If you lack a VNIN, dial 3463Your 11-Digit-NIN109071# to create it.
Method 2: USSD Code
For MTN subscribers, the USSD code (*785#) is the go-to method. Dial the code, input your 11-digit NIN when prompted, and await confirmation. To retrieve your NIN, dial *346# and follow the instructions, with a service charge of N20 for assistance.
How to Link Your NIN to Your Airtel:
Method 1: NIN Information Center of Airtel
Visit Airtel’s NIN Information Center page, input your phone number, and follow the provided instructions.
Take note of the VNIN:
💡 Generate a VNIN by dialing 3463Your 11-Digit-NIN109071# if you don’t have one.
Retrieve your NIN by dialing *346# and follow the instructions, incurring a N20 service charge for assistance.
How to Link Your NIN to Your Glo:
Method 1: NIN Information Center of Glo
Visit Glo’s NIN Information Center page, input your details, and click “Submit.”
Method 2: SMS
Send ‘UPDATENIN NIN First name Last name’ to 109. For example, “UPDATENIN 12345678901 John Doe.” Remember to retrieve your NIN by dialing *346# and following instructions, with a N20 service charge.
Method 3: USSD Code
Dial 109NIN# and follow the prompts.
How to Link Your NIN to Your 9mobile:
Method 1: NIN Information Center of 9mobile
Visit 9mobile’s NIN Information Center page, click “Reconnect now,” and follow the subsequent prompts.
Method 2: USSD Code
Dial 2008# with your 9mobile sim card and follow the prompts.
Retrieve your NIN by dialing *346# and follow the instructions, incurring a N20 service charge for assistance.
Conclusion:
Beyond mere compliance, linking your NIN to your SIM card enhances digital security, simplifies service access, and fosters a robust national identity system. Choose the method that suits you best and join the millions of connected Nigerians. Don’t procrastinate; take action today and ensure a secure and seamless digital future!
