The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced the final push to link Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) with National Identity Numbers (NINs).
Since the Federal Government launched this policy in 2020, over 153 million SIMs have been linked to NINs, achieving an impressive 96% compliance rate. This is a significant jump from 69.7% in January 2024.
As the final deadline of September 14, 2024, approaches, the NCC urges all Nigerians to ensure full compliance. Linking SIM cards to NINs is crucial for boosting trust and security in the digital economy.
This process helps verify mobile users, reduces the risks of fraud and cybercrime, and encourages more participation in e-commerce, digital banking, and mobile money services, which supports financial inclusion and economic growth.
The NCC, in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), has discovered cases where individuals hold an excessive number of SIM cards, some with over 100,000.
The NCC is committed to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to stop the sale of pre-registered SIMs, protecting national security and ensuring the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.
To achieve complete compliance, the NCC has instructed all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to finish verifying and linking SIMs to NINs by September 14, 2024.
From September 15, 2024, the NCC expects that no SIM in Nigeria will be active without a valid NIN.
The NCC encourages anyone who has not yet linked their SIM to a NIN, or those who have had issues with verification, to visit their service providers immediately to update their information before the deadline.
Self-service portals are also available for this purpose. The NCC reminds the public that selling or buying pre-registered SIMs is illegal, with penalties including fines and imprisonment.
Citizens are encouraged to report such activities to the NCC through their toll-free line (622) or social media channels.
