The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed mobile network operators to complete the verification and linkage of SIM cards to National Identification Numbers (NINs) by September 14, 2024.
The commission said the move aims to enhance the trust and security of Nigeria’s digital economy, promote financial inclusion, and drive economic growth.
According to the NCC, over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to NINs, representing a 96% compliance rate, up from 69.7% in January 2024.
The commission said it had worked closely with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to identify cases of individuals possessing an unusually high number of SIM cards, with some exceeding 100,000.
The NCC reiterated its commitment to collaborating with security agencies and stakeholders to prevent the sale of pre-registered SIMs and ensure national security.
The commission noted that it would encourage Nigerians who have yet to complete their NIN-SIM linkage or faced verification issues to update their details with their service providers before the deadline.
The NIN-SIM linkage policy was introduced in December 2020, with the federal government directing telecommunications companies to bar unregistered SIM cards and SIMs not linked to NINs. The NCC has reviewed the deadline several times, with the latest extension set for September 14, 2024.
In July 2024, the implementation of the policy led to the vandalism of telcos’ facilities by aggrieved Nigerians who were barred from making and receiving calls due to unverified NIN details.
The NCC subsequently ordered the reconnection of blocked phone lines for a limited period to allow customers to properly link their NIN to their SIM.
