Let’s be honest: discovering that unknown phone numbers are linked to your NIN (National Identification Number) feels like finding strange contacts in your phone that you never saved.
Uncomfortable. Risky. And slightly terrifying.
In 2026, this issue is more common than people think. Many Nigerians only realize it when:
- They receive suspicious SMS
- Their SIM gets blocked
- Or they try to link a new number and get rejected
So the real question is:
How can I remove a number linked to my NIN — safely, legally, and permanently?
This article gives you the official process approved by NIMC and telecom regulators, without fake codes, shortcuts, or risky tricks.
No myths. Just real systems.
What Does It Mean When a Number Is Linked to Your NIN?
When a phone number is linked to your NIN, it means:
- That SIM card was registered using your identity
- NIMC’s central database sees you as the owner
- Any activity on that number can trace back to you
This matters because:
- SIM fraud cases are rising
- Banks and fintech now rely on NIN
- Law enforcement traces SIMs through NIN
So if a stranger’s number stays linked to your NIN, you carry the risk.
Who Controls NIN Linkages?
This is very important.
Only one body controls your NIN:
National Identity Management Commission (NIMC)
Telecom companies like:
- MTN
- Airtel
- Glo
- 9mobile
do not own your NIN data.
They only submit SIM details to NIMC.
So any real removal must pass through NIMC systems.
That’s why no app, website, or USSD code can magically delete numbers.
Step 1: Check All Numbers Linked to Your NIN
Before removing anything, you must know what’s linked.
Method 1: Use NIMC USSD Code
Dial:
*996#
Then select:
- “NIN Status”
- Or “View linked numbers” (menu may differ)
This usually sends you an SMS showing numbers connected to your NIN.
This service is officially provided by NIMC.
Method 2: Request Official Record from NIMC
For full confirmation, you can request directly from NIMC:
Email:
nimcdataeconomy@nimc.gov.ng
Include:
- Full name
- NIN
- Date of birth
- Subject: Request for numbers linked to my NIN
They usually respond within 24–72 hours with a verified list.
This is the most reliable method.
Step 2: Identify Which Numbers Do Not Belong to You
Now check:
- Old SIMs you lost
- SIMs you sold
- Numbers you don’t recognize
- Business lines you no longer use
Any of these should be removed.
Don’t assume recycled SIMs are auto-removed.
Many stay linked unless manually cleaned.
Step 3: Visit Your Network Provider’s Service Center
This is where the real action happens.
Go to:
- MTN Experience Center
- Airtel Service Center
- Glo Office
- 9mobile Store
Bring:
- Your NIN slip or digital NIN
- Valid ID (passport, voter’s card, driver’s license)
- Screenshot or printout of linked numbers
- Your phone (for biometric verification)
What Happens at the Service Center?
The agent will:
- Verify your identity using biometrics
- Check your NIN record
- Raise a NIN de-link request
- Forward it to NIMC backend
- Give you a reference number
This process is officially recognized by NIMC and NCC.
How Long Does It Take to Remove a Number?
From real cases:
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| Service center request | Same day |
| NIMC processing | 24–72 hours |
| Full update | Up to 5 days |
Most users see results within 2–3 days.
Can I Remove NIN Links Online Only?
Short answer: No, not fully.
Online tools help you:
- View linked numbers
- Submit requests
But final removal requires biometric verification, which happens physically.
This protects your identity from:
- Hackers
- Fake requests
- Identity theft
That’s why NIMC doesn’t allow full online deletion.
What If I Am Outside Nigeria?
You still have options:
- Send authorization letter to trusted person
- Attach your NIN and ID copies
- Allow them visit service center on your behalf
Some telcos accept this, some don’t.
NIMC still prefers physical presence for security.
What You Should NEVER Do
1. Use Third-Party Apps
No app can access NIMC systems.
They only:
- Collect your data
- Show ads
- Or steal information
2. Believe “Magic USSD Codes”
There is no code like:
*996*00#
That removes numbers permanently.
Anyone promoting such is guessing.
3. Trust YouTube or Telegram Bots
Most of those tutorials recycle outdated or fake content.
NIMC systems are not public APIs.
What Happens If You Don’t Remove Unknown Numbers?
Here’s the uncomfortable truth.
If a linked number:
- Commits fraud
- Receives scam money
- Gets involved in cybercrime
Authorities may trace it back to your NIN first.
You may not go to jail, but:
- You will face investigation
- Your accounts may freeze
- You waste time proving innocence
It’s easier to clean now than explain later.
After Removing Numbers: How to Protect Your NIN
1. Avoid Sharing Your NIN Freely
Only give it to:
- Banks
- Telecom offices
- Government agencies
Never to random agents.
2. Recheck Every Few Months
Dial *996# occasionally.
This catches new issues early.
3. Keep Your SIM Packs
They prove ownership and history.
4. Use Alerts Where Available
Some networks notify when new SIMs link to your NIN.
Enable it.
The Logic Behind NIN Linking
NIN-SIM linkage exists to:
- Fight kidnapping
- Reduce fraud
- Improve digital identity
But like all systems, humans make mistakes.
That’s why NIMC allows corrections.
Security without flexibility becomes oppression.
Common Questions (FAQ)
Can I remove all numbers except one?
Yes. You choose which ones stay.
Can I remove a number I sold years ago?
Yes, if it still shows on your record.
Is removal free?
Usually yes. Some centers may charge service fees.
Will the other person lose their SIM?
Possibly. They may need to re-register with their own NIN.
Official Sources You Can Trust
All information here aligns with:
- National Identity Management Commission (NIMC): https://nimc.gov.ng
- Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC): https://www.ncc.gov.ng
- MTN Nigeria Support
- Airtel Nigeria Support
- Glo Nigeria Support
These are the only bodies with legal authority over NIN.
The Funny but Real Truth
Most people protect:
- Their ATM PIN
- Their Gmail password
- Their Instagram account
But give out their NIN like a flyer.
That’s backwards.
Your NIN is your digital fingerprint.
Once abused, it affects everything.
Final Summary (No Sugarcoating)
To remove a number linked to your NIN in 2026:
- Check linked numbers using *996# or NIMC email
- Identify unknown or old numbers
- Visit your telco service center
- Request NIN de-link with biometrics
- Track with reference number
- Confirm removal after 2–5 days
No shortcuts. No hacks. No magic codes.
Just real identity systems doing their job.
Smart User Rule for 2026
If your NIN matters to you:
- Clean it regularly
- Monitor linked numbers
- Share it carefully
- Treat it like your passport
Because in the digital world, your identity is more valuable than your phone.
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