Have you made mistake(s) on your National Identification Number (NIN) record — like a wrong date of birth, misspelled name, or outdated phone number?
In 2025, you no longer need to queue at NIMC offices for hours. The NIMC self-service portal now lets you correct your NIN details online, securely and conveniently.
However, if you don’t follow the new rules, you could get locked out and have to start the whole process again. This guide will walk you through how to change your NIN date of birth online, correct your name, or update your phone number — and avoid the mistakes many Nigerians are making.
But before I proceed, NIMC’s New Guidelines for the NIN Self-Service Portal
NIMC Issues New Guidelines for NIN Self-Service Portal Users
In a statement by Dr. Kayode Adegoke, Head of NIMC’s Corporate Communications Unit, the Commission explained that access to the NIN modification portal is strictly tied to the browser and device used during account registration.
This measure is part of efforts to enhance data security and prevent unauthorized access.
Device and Browser Restrictions
Once you create an account on the self-service portal, you must always log in with the same device and browser you used during registration.
If you try to log in from a different device or browser, the system will block the attempt.
“Your self-service account is uniquely tied to the browser and device used during registration. Access to your account is therefore limited to that specific browser on that particular device,” — NIMC.
Cache and Unlock Limits
- Do not clear your browser cache after registration — doing so could lock you out.
- If your account gets locked, you only have five unlock request attempts.
- Exceeding this limit means you must go through a formal unlinking process to regain access.
NIMC urged applicants to adhere strictly to these guidelines to avoid disruptions.
Why NIMC Introduced the Self-Service Modification Portal
The self-service portal is part of NIMC’s drive to digitize identity management and make services more accessible.
In October 2024, NIMC announced that data modifications would no longer be done at NIN enrolment centres. Instead, all Nigerians must now use the self-service portal.
Benefits of the self-service portal include:
- Convenience– update your NIN record anytime, anywhere.
- Security– prevents unauthorized access to your personal data.
- Efficiency– no need to queue at NIMC offices.
Common Issues People Face on the Self-Service Portal (and How to Avoid Them)
Some users have reported difficulties, including:
- Being unable to log in even on the same device used for registration.
- Errors such as “NIN not valid” when trying to correct details.
- No response from NIMC support after multiple contact attempts.
If you lose or damage the device you registered with, you may need to visit the nearest NIMC office to resolve the issue.
Step-by-Step: How to Change Your NIN Date of Birth, Name, or Phone Number Online
Follow these steps to update your NIN record via the NIMC Self Service Modification Portal:
Go to the NIMC Self Service Portal
Visit https://selfservicemodification.nimc.gov.ng
(This portal allows you to change your name, phone number, date of birth, and address.)Register or Log In
- If you’re new, click “Register”.
- If you’ve used it before, click “Login”.
Important: Use the same device and browser you registered with.
Enter Your Details (for new registration)
- Last name
- First name
- Middle name
- Phone number (must match the number linked to your BVN)
Complete the Registration
Follow the on-screen instructions to finish registration.
Select the Service You Want
Once logged in, go to the menu and choose what you want to modify (e.g., first name correction, phone number update, date of birth change).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – NIMC Self-Service NIN Modification
1. How can I change my NIN date of birth online?
You can change your date of birth by visiting the NIMC Self-Service Modification Portal, registering or logging in, and selecting the date of birth correction option. You must upload supporting documents such as your birth certificate or sworn affidavit.
2. Can I change my NIN name online?
Yes. The NIN self-service portal allows you to change your first name, middle name, or surname. You’ll need to provide official documents like a marriage certificate, newspaper publication, or court affidavit.
3. What should I do if I can’t log in to the NIMC self-service portal?
If you get a “device not recognized” error, ensure you’re using the same device and browser you registered with. If the issue persists, visit the nearest NIMC office to request a device unlinking.
4. Can I change my NIN phone number?
Yes. Log in to the NIMC modification portal, select the update phone number option, and enter your new number. Make sure it matches the phone number linked to your BVN.
5. Is NIN modification still done at NIMC offices?
No. Since October 2024, NIMC has stopped processing data modifications at enrollment centres. All changes must be done online via the self-service portal.
6. How long does NIN date of birth correction take?
It typically takes 1–5 working days if done via the self-service portal and 2–8 weeks if done in person, depending on NIMC workload.
7. Is there a fee for changing my NIN date of birth?
Yes. NIMC charges ₦15,000 for date of birth changes, payable via Remita.
8. What documents are required for NIN date of birth correction?
You need your NIN slip, a valid birth certificate or sworn affidavit, a court affidavit if applicable, and proof of payment.
9. Can I change my NIN date of birth more than once?
No. NIMC policy allows only one date of birth change per lifetime, except in rare legal circumstances.
Related Resources
If you’ve been struggling with the NIMC self-service portal, patience and following the official guidelines will help you avoid account lockouts and make your modification process smoother.