“I found out on June 21 after a stranger texted me on WhatsApp detailing how the application slip was used to package a meal he got from a street vendor”
On June 21, Oluwadamisi Awe, a Lagos-based corps member, was stunned when a stranger messaged her on WhatsApp with an image of her Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) application slip—used to wrap akara, a street snack.
“I found out on June 21 after a stranger texted me on WhatsApp detailing how the application slip was used to package a meal he got from a street vendor,” she told FIJ.
Awe said she applied online without using an agent. “I got proof of payment from the website and wasn’t in contact with any immigration staff,” she added.
The document, she said, contained sensitive data including her NIN, email, and next-of-kin details. She expressed concern over who else may have access to it.
Responding, NIS said, “We utilise robust systems… [but] breaches… are often linked to unauthorised third parties.”
Awe clarified she printed the slip at the office gate. Data expert Israel Tijani advised NIS to digitise its process and eliminate hard copies to avoid leaks.