The National Identity Management Commission, NIMC, on Monday, faced public backlash after a social media user accused the agency of charging fees in U.S. dollars for National Identification Number data modifications on its portal.
The user, known as “Akwa Ibom First Son,” posted a screenshot sighted by PUNCH Online purportedly from the NIMC website, showing fees of $20.78 for changes to birth dates, addresses, names, and phone numbers.
“Dear NIMC, can you explain to Nigerians why your website charges Nigerians in dollars?” the user wrote on X (formerly Twitter)
In response, NIMC explained that the portal does not charge in dollars and attributed the issue to the use of Virtual Private Networks.
“The use of VPNs can cause the website to detect a different location and currency,” the commission said.
To resolve the issue, NIMC advised users to turn off their VPNs and try again. If the problem persists, users can reach out to the support team for further assistance.
Meanwhile, the NIMC Self-Service Modifications portal enables citizens and legal residents aged 16 and older to request changes to their name, phone number, date of birth, and address.
Some data fields are non-updatable. The approved fee for a change of date of birth request is N15,000, according to information gathered from its website.
Also Read:
- Rivers emergency rule: Presidency faults Jonathan, Soyinka for condemning Fubara, lawmakers’ suspension
- Another explosion rocks gas facility in Rivers State
- Alleged Nepotism: NHMST exposes source of report indicting NAHCON, threatens legal action
- Mining marshals at one: Alake vows fiercer battle against illegal mining
- Withdrawal of services by Osun LG workers uncalled for – APC chieftain
Public reaction to the NIMC’s explanation was largely negative.
Another X user, Yasir Jubril, stated, “There’s clearly foul play here! Regardless of the location, services should be charged in naira.
“And why is a change of name or address that expensive?” said Yasir Jubril, another X user.
Other users echoed this sentiment, questioning the technical design of the payment system.
“Naira cards can be used from anywhere. All their charges should be in local currency, irrespective of location,” commented user John Wick.
Isa Kabir shared his experience, stating that while initially the portal displayed fees in naira, it later showed fees in U.S. dollars.
“I had to send several emails before it was rectified. Instead of working on the site, they are here giving excuses,” he said.
Earlier this month, NIMC Director General, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, reiterated the commission’s commitment to transparency.
“My administration has zero tolerance for corruption.
“I hereby reiterate my commitment to sanitizing NIMC in conformity with the mandate of Mr. President. Enrolment for the National Identification Number is free of charge in Nigeria,” she said
Follow The Eagle Online Channel on WhatsApp
