NEWISSUES
By Seyi Babalola
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has instructed that all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) complete the necessary verification and linking of Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) to National Identity Numbers (NINs) by September 14, 2024.
On Wednesday, the NCC provided an update on the federal government’s 2020 policy to link all NINs to SIMs.
The Commission stated that over 153 million SIMs had been successfully connected to a NIN, resulting in a 96% compliance rate, up from 69.7% in January 2024.
In a statement signed by Reuben Muoka, Director, of Public Affairs, the Commission stated that as the country reaches the last phase of the process, it begs the continuous collaboration of all Nigerians to achieve 100% compliance.
“The complete linkage of all SIM cards to NINs is essential for enhancing the trust and security of our digital economy,” it added.
“By verifying all mobile users, this policy strengthens confidence in digital transactions, reduces the risk of fraud and cybercrime, and supports greater participation in e-commerce, digital banking, and mobile money services.
“This, in turn, promotes financial inclusion and drives economic growth.”
The Commission further revealed that through collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser, ONSA, and the National Identity Management Commission, NIMC, it has uncovered alarming cases where individuals possessed an unusually high number of SIM cards — some exceeding 100,000.
“The Commission also remains committed to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, thereby safeguarding national security and ensuring the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.”
It said to ensure full compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy, it has “directed all Mobile Network Operators, MNOs, to complete the mandatory verification and linkage of SIMs to NINs by September 14, 2024”.
“Effective September 15, 2024, the Commission expects that no SIM operating in Nigeria will be without a valid NIN.
“We urge all members of the public who have not yet completed their NIN-SIM linkage, or who have faced issues due to verification mismatches, to visit their service providers promptly to update their details before the deadline. Alternatively, the approved self-service portals are available for this purpose.”
The NCC also reminded the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offences punishable by imprisonment and fines.
“We encourage citizens to report any such activities to the Commission via our toll-free line (622) or through our social media platforms.”
