The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued a stern warning to mobile subscribers who have yet to link their subscriber identity modules (SIMs) to their national identification numbers (NINs). The regulator has set September 14, 2024, as the final deadline for this mandatory process.
In a statement released today, the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Mouka, announced that over 153 million SIMs have already been successfully linked to NINs. However, a significant portion of mobile users, roughly 4%, are still in violation of this government directive.
The NCC has emphasised that failure to comply with the NIN-SIM linkage mandate will result in severe consequences, including the potential disconnection of mobile services. The regulator has directed all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to ensure that all SIMs operating in Nigeria are linked to valid NINs by the specified deadline.
The NCC has reiterated that the NIN-SIM linkage exercise is crucial for enhancing national security, improving the integrity of the mobile network, and curbing fraudulent activities. The commission is committed to working closely with security agencies and other stakeholders to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, a practice that poses a significant threat to national security.
Through its collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser and the National Identity Management Commission, the NCC has uncovered alarming instances where individuals possess an unusually high number of SIM cards, some exceeding 100,000. The sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are illegal activities punishable by imprisonment and fines. The NCC encourages citizens to report any such activities to the commission through its toll-free line or social media channels.
The NCC has urged subscribers to take advantage of the extended deadline to link their SIMs to their NINs. The process is relatively straightforward and can be completed online or through designated registration centres.
The Nigerian government introduced the NIN-SIM linkage policy in 2020 to strengthen national security and prevent fraudulent activities. Despite multiple deadline extensions, a significant number of lines remain unverified. The NCC has consistently emphasised the importance of this policy and has taken various measures to ensure compliance.