Code to Retrieve NIN: How to Check Your National Identity Number Easily on Phone
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| Code to Retrieve NIN |
Have you forgotten your National Identification Number (NIN) or misplaced your slip? Don’t worry — you can retrieve your NIN in seconds using a simple USSD code on your phone.
In this article, you’ll learn the official code to retrieve your NIN, which networks support it (MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile), how much it costs, and what to do if it doesn’t work. This guide is especially helpful for students registering for WAEC, NECO, or JAMB, and for anyone who needs their NIN for SIM card linking or government applications.
What is NIN and Why Is It Important?
The National Identification Number (NIN) is an 11-digit number issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to every Nigerian citizen and legal resident. It is used for:
- Registering for JAMB, NECO, and WAEC
- SIM card registration and linking
- Opening bank accounts and BVN
- Applying for driver’s licenses, passports, and scholarships
Losing access to your NIN can delay school registrations, SIM reactivation, and government services. That’s why knowing the code to retrieve your NIN is vital.
Code to Retrieve NIN on Your Phone
The official USSD code to retrieve your NIN on any phone is:
*346#
This code works on all major Nigerian mobile networks:
| Network | Code |
|---|---|
| MTN | *346# |
| Airtel | *346# |
| Glo | *346# |
| 9mobile | *346# |
How to Retrieve NIN Using *346# (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps:
- Dial
*346#on the phone number you used to register for NIN. - Select “1” (NIN Retrieval) from the menu options.
- Your 11-digit NIN will appear on the screen.
- Take a screenshot or write it down for safekeeping.
Note: The number you use must be the one linked to your NIN registration. If not, it won’t work.
Cost of Retrieving NIN Using *346#
There is a ₦20 charge for retrieving your NIN via USSD. Ensure you have at least ₦20 airtime on your phone before dialing the code.
Common Issues and How to Fix Them
| Issue | Reason | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| “No record found” | The number is not linked to any NIN | Try another SIM or visit NIMC office |
| “Service not available” | Network issue or high traffic | Wait and try again during off-peak hours |
| Deducted ₦20 but didn’t show NIN | Temporary glitch | Retry after a few minutes or contact your network provider |
Alternative Ways to Retrieve Your NIN
If the USSD method fails, here are other ways to get your NIN:
1. NIMC Mobile App (MWS: NIMC Mobile ID)
- Download from Play Store or [App Store]
- Enter your NIN and linked phone number
- Use the app to view your NIN and download your digital slip
2. NIMC Self-Service Portal
- Visit: https://selfservicemodification.nimc.gov.ng
- Sign in with your NIN or transaction slip number to view your details
3. Visit an NIMC Office
- If all else fails, go to any NIMC enrollment center with a valid ID to retrieve or reprint your NIN slip.
Stay Safe When Retrieving Your NIN
- Only use the *official code: 346#
- Avoid third-party websites or apps asking for your personal data
- Don’t share your NIN publicly to avoid identity theft
FAQs on Code to Retrieve NIN
*Q: Can I use 346# on any phone?
A: Yes, but it must be the phone number linked to your NIN registration.
Q: Can I retrieve NIN without airtime?
A: No. The *346# service costs ₦20 per request.
Q: What if I registered NIN with a lost number?
A: You will need to visit the nearest NIMC office to update your mobile number.
*Q: Can I check someone else’s NIN with 346#?
A: No. It only shows the NIN for the line used during registration.
Retrieving your NIN is simple and fast using the code *346#. Whether you're a student, job seeker, or just trying to link your SIM, this USSD code will save you time and stress. Just remember to have ₦20 airtime and use the correct SIM.
For more NIN-related tips, including how to link your NIN to MTN, Glo, Airtel, or how to correct your name or date of birth, check our other articles.
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