The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has set September 14 as the ‘final deadline’ for linking the National Identification Number (NIN) with Subscriber Identification Modules (SIM).
NCC spokesperson Reuben Muoka announced this in a statement on Wednesday, instructing all mobile network operators (MNOs) to complete the NIN-SIM verification and linkage process by September 14, 2024.
Muoka noted that over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to their NINs, showing a remarkable compliance rate of 96 percent, a significant rise from 69.7 percent in January 2024.
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“To ensure full adherence to the NIN-SIM linkage policy, the NCC has directed all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to finalize the mandatory verification and linkage of SIMs to NINs by September 14, 2024,” the statement read.
“Effective from September 15, 2024, the Commission expects that no SIM operating in Nigeria will lack a valid NIN.”
The NCC, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), has uncovered alarming cases during the process.
The Commission also affirmed its commitment to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to combat the sale of pre-registered SIMs, emphasizing the need to protect national security and maintain the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.
The NCC stressed that starting September 15, 2024, it expects all SIMs in Nigeria to be linked to a valid NIN.
“We urge all members of the public who have not yet completed their NIN-SIM linkage or who have encountered 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 reminds the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offenses 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,” the statement concluded.
PRESS STATEMENT
NCC Announces Final Deadline for NIN-SIM Linkage Compliance pic.twitter.com/bj5LOVxkUq
— ncc.gov.ng (@NgComCommission) August 28, 2024