JAMB Says “NIN Already Used” – Meaning And Solution Explained 2026

If you are trying to register for JAMB UTME or Direct Entry for the 2026/2027 academic session and suddenly see the message “NIN Already Used”, then stay calm, you are not alone. Thousands of Nigerian candidates encounter this frustrating error every year, especially during the peak of JAMB registration.

This article explains what “NIN already used” means, why JAMB displays the error, and step-by-step solutions to fix it permanently. This guide is carefully written for Nigerian students and parents, using verified processes from JAMB and NIMC, and has all you need to know about this issue and its solution for this year’s JAMB. Let’s get started already.

Page Contents

What Does “NIN Already Used” Mean in JAMB Registration?

When JAMB says “NIN Already Used”, it means that the National Identification Number (NIN) you submitted has already been linked to another JAMB profile in JAMB’s database.

JAMB operates on a one-candidate, one-NIN, one-profile policy. Once a NIN is used to create a JAMB profile code, it cannot be used again for another candidate or profile unless properly corrected by JAMB.

This error does not always mean fraud. In many cases, it happens due to mistakes, system delays, or actions taken without your knowledge.

Common Reasons Why JAMB Says “NIN Already Used”

Understanding the cause will help you choose the right solution. Below are the common reasons why JAMB usually say NIN Already Used:

1. You Registered for JAMB Last Year

If you have ever registered for JAMB before, either last year or even many years ago, your NIN may already be connected to your old JAMB profile. JAMB does not delete old records, and this will make you face the NIN already used issue this year.

2. Someone Used Your NIN Without Your Knowledge

This is common when:

Cyber café operators register candidates in bulk
Friends or relatives mistakenly use your NIN
Data is wrongly entered during CBT registration

3. Mismatch Between NIN Details and JAMB Data

If your name, date of birth, or gender on NIMC does not match what JAMB has, the system may treat it as a duplicate usage.

4. NIN Was Used for DE Instead of UTME (or Vice Versa)

Using your NIN for Direct Entry (DE) when you intend to register for UTME (or the opposite) can also trigger the error.

5. System or Network Error During Registration

Sometimes the NIN submission goes through twice due to poor network or server delay, causing the system to flag it as “already used.”

Is “NIN Already Used” a Serious Problem?

Yes, NIN Already Used is actually a very serious problem you may face as a 2026 JAMB candidate, but it is fixable. If ignored, you will not be able to register for JAMB this year, generate a profile code, or sit for the UTME/DE examination.

The good news is that JAMB has official solutions, and you do not need to pay scammers. If you keep reading below, you will see the simple and easy solutions to this issue that will help you fix it once and for all.

How to Fix “NIN Already Used” on JAMB 2026/2027

Below are verified and safe solutions you can follow and use to fix the NIN Already Used issue and be ready for your JAMB 2026 registration immediately:

Solution 1: Retrieve Your Existing JAMB Profile Code

If you have registered before, you do not need a new profile.

How to Retrieve JAMB Profile Code Using NIN:

Send NIN to 55019 or 66019
Use the SIM number linked to your NIN
Example: NIN 12345678901
You will receive your old profile code

You can then proceed with registration.

Solution 2: Visit Any JAMB Office for NIN Reset

If someone else used your NIN wrongly, this is the most reliable solution.

What to Take to JAMB Office:

Original NIN slip
Valid ID card (if available)
SIM card used for NIN
Evidence of error message (optional)

Ask for NIN detachment or profile correction. JAMB officials can:

Remove your NIN from the wrong profile
Restore it to your correct biodata

Solution 3: Correct Your NIN Details at NIMC

If the issue is due to name or date of birth mismatch:

Visit the nearest NIMC registration centre
Request biodata correction
Update:
- Name spelling
- Date of birth
- Gender
Wait for confirmation
Retry JAMB registration after 24–72 hours

Solution 4: Use the Same Phone Number Linked to Your NIN

JAMB only recognizes the SIM linked to your NIN.

Ensure:

The SIM is active
It can send SMS
It is not barred

Then resend your NIN to 55019 or 66019.

Solution 5: Do Not Generate a New NIN

Getting a second NIN is illegal and can permanently disqualify you from JAMB and other government services. Always resolve the issue using your original NIN.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Another Person’s NIN for JAMB?

No. JAMB will detect it, and your registration will be cancelled.

2. Can I Change My NIN for JAMB?

No. JAMB does not allow NIN change. Only corrections are permitted.

3. How Long Does JAMB NIN Correction Take?

At JAMB office: Same day or within 48 hours
At NIMC: 1–3 weeks depending on location

4. Does JAMB Charge for Fixing NIN Already Used?

No. Official JAMB offices do not charge. Beware of agents asking for money.

Important Tips to Avoid “NIN Already Used” Error

Here are some important tips to note to avoid the NIN already used error in the JAMB 2026 registration period:

Never share your NIN publicly
Register personally at trusted CBT centres
Use the same phone number linked to your NIN
Confirm your biodata before registration
Avoid multiple profile creation attempts

Conclusion

The “NIN Already Used” error is common but solvable. Most candidates panic unnecessarily or fall into the hands of fraudsters yearly. As long as your NIN is genuine and correct, JAMB can fix the issue of the NIN already used for you easily. Always use official JAMB and NIMC channels, and avoid shortcuts that may cost you your admission opportunity.

For more JAMB updates, WAEC guides, NECO tips, cut-off marks, and admission news, always visit studentful.com.ng, your trusted student success platform in Nigeria.

JAMB Says “NIN Already Used” – Meaning and Solution Explained 2026

What Does “NIN Already Used” Mean in JAMB Registration?