The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has reiterated that the National Identification Number (NIN) will be mandatory for all candidates registering for the 2026 Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE). In an advisory posted on its official social media platform, the commission described the NIN not merely as a formality but as a “critical academic tool”, essential for exam registration, school records, scholarship applications and other government-linked services. Officials emphasised that candidates without a valid NIN will not be able to complete registration for the SSCE next year, underscoring the government’s push to integrate identity management into key educational processes.

To make the requirement more accessible, the NIMC has expanded its enrolment strategy, decentralising registration centres to grassroots ward levels across communities. This “Ward Enrollment Strategy” aims to shorten travel distances for parents and guardians seeking NINs for their children ahead of SSCE deadlines. The advisory also urged parents to accompany minors under 16 years old with their own valid NIN when enrolling younger candidates, and stressed that registration remains free of charge at official NIMC centres, warning against unauthorised agents.

The policy aligns with broader national reforms that are increasingly tying the NIN to access to government services, education and official processes. Earlier announcements by examination bodies like WAEC also indicate that candidates must present their NIN during online registration for public exams, and failure to have one may block completion of registration. Observers say the move reflects Nigeria’s ongoing digital identity drive, aimed at improving data integrity and service delivery, though it also raises urgency for many families to complete enrolment well before the 2026 SSCE exercise.