By Our Reporter
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has set September 14, 2024, as the final deadline for completing the mandatory linkage of SIMs to National Identification Numbers (NINs).
In a statement released by Mr. Reuben Muoka, Director of Public Affairs at the NCC, the commission announced that all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) must ensure full compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy by this date.
The statement highlighted that significant progress has been made under the Federal Government’s 2020 policy, with over 153 million SIMs now linked to NINs, representing a compliance rate of 96 percent, up from 69.7 percent in January 2024.
As the process enters its final phase, the NCC is urging all Nigerians to cooperate fully to achieve 100 percent compliance. This linkage is crucial for enhancing digital trust and security, reducing fraud and cybercrime, and supporting greater participation in digital services such as e-commerce, digital banking, and mobile money, thus promoting financial inclusion and economic growth.
The commission, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), has identified alarming cases of individuals with excessively high numbers of SIM cards, some exceeding 100,000. The NCC is committed to working with security agencies to combat the sale of pre-registered SIMs and ensure the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.
From September 15, 2024, all SIMs operating in Nigeria are expected to be linked to a valid NIN. The NCC urges those who have not yet completed the linkage or are experiencing verification issues to visit their service providers or use the approved self-service portals before the deadline. The public is also reminded that selling or purchasing pre-registered SIMs is a criminal offense punishable by imprisonment and fines, and such activities should be reported to the NCC via its toll-free line (622) or social media platforms.