Paying NI on company shares

[JL]

I joined a company recently, and was given a number of shares as a gift, I know that I have to pay tax on this, but the company accountants now are advising me that I also have to pay National Insurance Contributions.
Is this correct, as the shares were classed as a gift and not worked for.

Regards

[King_Maker]

NI can be payable on "readily convertible assets", received via one's employment.