The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has set September 14, 2024, as the ultimate deadline for the mandatory linkage of National Identification Numbers (NINs) to Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs).
In an official statement, Reuben Muoka, the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, instructed all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to ensure that the verification and linkage processes are completed by the stipulated date. This directive is part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts, initiated in December 2020, to enhance the security and integrity of Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
The policy aims to link every active SIM card in the country to an NIN, thereby reducing fraud, cybercrime, and other security threats. The NCC also reported significant progress, with over 153 million SIMs already linked to NINs, reflecting a 96% compliance rate—a substantial increase from the 69.7% recorded in January 2024.
The NCC emphasized the importance of complete compliance, noting that the NIN-SIM linkage is critical for boosting trust in digital transactions, promoting financial inclusion, and driving economic growth.
The Commission also revealed alarming discoveries during its collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). These include instances where authorities discovered individuals possessing an unusually high number of SIM cards, with some holding over 100,000 SIMs.
In lieu of this, the NCC reiterated its commitment to significantly cracking down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, a practice that undermines national security. The Commission warned that starting September 15, 2024, they will deactivate any SIM not linked to a valid NIN. They urge the public to promptly update their NIN-SIM linkage through their service providers or approved self-service portals.
Read also: Nigerians’ NIN, BVN data sold online for cheap – Paradigm Initiative.
The NCC also reminded citizens that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offenses, punishable by imprisonment and fines. The NCC encourages the public to report any such activities through its toll-free line (622) or social media platforms.
Note that authorities extended earlier deadlines for the NIN-SIM linkage multiple times, with the most recent extension set for July 31, 2024, following public unrest and the vandalization of telecom facilities by aggrieved individuals barred from making and receiving calls due to NIN verification issues.
In response to the public outcry, the NCC temporarily lifted the barring of non-linked SIMs, allowing affected users a limited period to rectify their NIN-SIM linkage issues. With the final deadline fast approaching, the NCC is calling on all Nigerians to comply fully, stressing that the integrity and security of the nation’s mobile communications depend on it.
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