Nigerians numbering in their hundreds have besieged the National Identity Management Commission in Lagos to register for the National Identification Number.

The crowd shunned social distancing, exposing more people to the dreaded coronavirus.

This comes as the deadline for registration draws closer.

Many are afraid of losing their lines should they fail to register.

A statement by the NIMC shows that the exercise will close around February.

The statement said, “The National Task Force on NIN and SIM Registration met today (yesterday). Resolutions reached at the meeting include: that FG has approved three weeks extension for subscribers with NIN from December 30, 2020 to January 19; extended by six weeks extension for subscribers without NIN from December 30, 2020 to February 9, 2021. “NIMC has provided strategies to enable citizens attend the registration in full compliance with COVID-19 protocols, particularly the use of facemasks which remains mandatory and maintenance of social distancing.

“The President appreciates Nigerians for their patience and commitment to update their Identities. The Federal Government also thanks all stakeholders for their compliance with the directives. President has also commended the efforts of the Task Force and urged all stakeholders to take advantage of the extension to link their SIM card with their NIN and USSD and verification charges remain suspended during these extensions.”

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