"NCC Sets Final Deadline for NIN-SIM Linkage: September 14, 2024"
By Gloria Sarauniya Usman
ABUJA, NIGERIA August, 2024 -The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is pleased to announce significant progress in the Federal Government's 2020 policy to link all Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) to National Identity Numbers (NINs). To date, over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to a NIN, achieving an impressive compliance rate of 96%, a substantial increase from 69.7% in January 2024.
As we approach the final phase of this critical process, the NCC seeks the continued cooperation of all Nigerians to achieve 100% compliance. The complete linkage of all SIM cards to NINs is crucial for enhancing the trust and security of our digital economy. By verifying all mobile users, this policy strengthens confidence in digital transactions, reduces the risk of fraud and cybercrime, and supports greater participation in e-commerce, digital banking, and mobile money services, ultimately promoting financial inclusion and driving economic growth.
Through collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), the NCC has uncovered alarming cases of individuals possessing an unusually high number of SIM cards, with some exceeding 100,000. The Commission remains committed to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, thereby safeguarding national security and ensuring the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.
To ensure full compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy, the NCC has directed all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to complete the mandatory verification and linkage of SIMs to NINs by September 14, 2024. Effective September 15, 2024, the Commission expects that no SIM operating in Nigeria will be without a valid NIN.
The NCC urges all members of the public who have not yet completed their NIN-SIM linkage or faced issues due to verification mismatches to visit their service providers promptly to update their details before the deadline. Alternatively, approved self-service portals are available for this purpose.
The Commission reminds the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offences punishable by imprisonment and fines. Citizens are encouraged to report any such activities to the Commission via our toll-free line (622) or through our social media platforms.
The NCC thanks the general public for its continued cooperation as we work together to strengthen Nigeria's digital ecosystem.
The Press Release was signed by
Reuben Muoka,Director, Public Affairs.
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