On Monday, the National Identity Management Commission was criticized by the public after a social media user accused the organization of charging fees in U.S. dollars for modifications to National Identification Number data on its portal.
The user, known as “Akwa Ibom First Son,” posted a screenshot sighted 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 clarified that they do not charge with dollar on the portal and blamed the problem on the usage of virtual private networks.
“The use of VPNs can cause the website to detect a different location and currency,” the commission said.
NIMC suggested users to switch off their VPNs and give it another go in order to fix the problem. Users can contact the support staff for more help if the issue continues.
Meanwhile, citizens and legal residents (age 16 and older) can request changes to their name, phone number, date of birth, and address changes through the NIMC Self-Service Modifications page.
Certain data fields are non-updateable. The information acquired from its website indicates that N15,000 is the approved fee for change of date of birth request.
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.
