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| How to Generate Virtual NIN in 2025 |
If you’ve been asked to provide your Virtual NIN (vNIN) for SIM registration, school admission, JAMB profile verification, or NIN-related services, you’re not alone. The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) now recommends using Virtual NINs for secure identity verification.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- What a Virtual NIN is
- Why it's important
- How to generate a Virtual NIN using your phone or online
- How to use vNIN for MTN, Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile registration
- Common errors and how to fix them
What Is a Virtual NIN (vNIN)?
A Virtual National Identification Number (vNIN) is a temporary, masked version of your actual 11-digit NIN that can be securely shared for identity verification. It:
- Prevents unauthorized access to your full NIN
- Is valid for only 72 hours
- Is unique to each requesting agency or service (e.g. MTN, JAMB)
This system was introduced by NIMC to enhance data privacy and security, especially during SIM registration or university admission.
How to Generate Virtual NIN (3 Easy Methods)
You can generate your vNIN through:
- USSD Code (Works without internet)
- NIMC Mobile App
- Online NIMC portal
Let’s explore each method:
1. Using USSD Code (Offline Method)
This method works on any mobile phone with a registered SIM.
Steps:
- Dial
*346#on the phone number linked to your NIN - Select option 3: “Virtual NIN”
- Enter the Enterprise Shortcode (provided by the requesting agency, e.g. MTN, JAMB, etc.)
- You’ll receive a 16-digit vNIN via SMS
Note: This costs ₦20 and the vNIN expires in 72 hours.
Example:
To link your NIN to MTN, the shortcode might be 785 or a provider-specific code like 109071.
2. Using the NIMC Mobile App (Online Method)
The app offers more control and is useful for managing multiple identities (e.g., parents and students).
Steps:
- Download the “MWS: NIMC MobileID” app from Play Store or App Store
- Register with your 11-digit NIN and phone number
- Open the app > Tap “Get Virtual NIN”
- Enter the Agency Code
- Tap “Generate”
- A 16-digit vNIN will appear. Copy and share as required.
You can also scan a QR code for faster verification if the agent uses a NIMC scanner.
3. Using the NIMC Online Portal
This method may work on some official NIMC or partner portals.
Steps:
- Visit: https://nimc.gov.ng/
- Navigate to “Virtual NIN Services”
- Log in using your NIN and registered phone number
- Generate and download your vNIN or use it directly online
Note: Availability may vary based on your service provider or the current status of the NIN portal.
What Is the Difference Between NIN and Virtual NIN?
| NIN | Virtual NIN (vNIN) |
|---|---|
| Permanent and unique ID | Temporary and disposable |
| Used for official documentation | Used mainly for verification and SIM registration |
| Exposes full ID | Masks real NIN for privacy |
| Cannot be limited to one agency | Unique to each organization |
Common Virtual NIN Errors and Fixes
| Error Message | Possible Fix |
|---|---|
| "This number is not linked to a NIN" | Confirm the phone line is registered with NIMC |
| "Invalid Enterprise Shortcode" | Use the correct shortcode from the service provider |
| "Virtual NIN generation failed" | Try again after 10–15 minutes; use the NIMC app if problem persists |
| "Insufficient balance for USSD request" | Ensure you have at least ₦20 airtime |
Agency Codes for Virtual NIN (2025)
| Provider | Enterprise Shortcode |
|---|---|
| MTN Nigeria | 109071 |
| Airtel | 121097 |
| Glo | 109071 |
| 9mobile | 109071 |
| JAMB | 109071 |
Tip: Always confirm from your service provider or their website if unsure.
Why You Should Use Virtual NIN in 2025
With increasing data leaks and SIM swap fraud, using your raw NIN is no longer safe. NIMC now recommends using vNIN for:
- SIM registration (MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile)
- JAMB, NYSC, or WAEC verification
- Bank account openings
- App logins requiring identity validation
Using your Virtual NIN gives you peace of mind, knowing your data isn’t exposed to abuse.
Generating your Virtual NIN in 2025 is fast, secure, and required for most NIMC-linked services. You can do it using USSD, the Mobile ID App, or through select online portals.
Quick Reminder:
- Dial *346# to get a Virtual NIN
- Costs ₦20 per request
- vNIN is valid for 72 hours only
- Get the Enterprise Code from the agency asking for your NIN
