The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced a final deadline for the mandatory linkage of Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) to National Identity Numbers (NINs), marking September 14, 2024, as the last day for telecom subscribers to comply.
In a recent statement, the NCC confirmed that 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to NINs, representing a significant compliance rate of 96%.
This is a substantial increase from the 69.7% recorded in January 2024. However, the Commission emphasized the need for complete compliance to achieve the goals of the NIN-SIM linkage policy.
“The complete linkage of all SIM cards to NINs is essential for enhancing the trust and security of our digital economy,” said Reuben Muoka, Director of Public Affairs at NCC.
“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. This, in turn, promotes financial inclusion and drives economic growth.”
The NIN-SIM linkage policy, introduced in 2020, is part of a broader initiative to secure Nigeria’s digital infrastructure. By linking SIM cards to NINs, the government aims to create a more secure and reliable digital environment.
With a verified database of mobile users, financial institutions and digital service providers can confidently expand their services, knowing that the risk of fraudulent activities is significantly reduced.
The NCC, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), also uncovered alarming cases of SIM misuse. Some individuals were found to have registered over 100,000 SIM cards in their names, far exceeding the allowed limit. Under the NIN-SIM linkage policy, an individual is permitted to register a maximum of four SIM cards per network operator.
“Through collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), the NCC has uncovered alarming cases where individuals possessed an unusually high number of SIM cards—some exceeding 100,000,” the Commission stated.
As the September 14 deadline approaches, the NCC has urged all telecom subscribers who have not yet linked their SIMs to NINs to do so immediately. Effective September 15, 2024, any SIM not linked to a valid NIN will be blocked by the network operators.
“We urge all members of the public who have not yet completed their NIN-SIM linkage, or who have faced 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 advised.
The Commission also reminded the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offences punishable by imprisonment and fines. Nigerians are encouraged to report any such activities to the NCC through its toll-free line (622) or social media platforms.
In late July 2024, telecom operators began barring millions of lines that were not linked to NINs as the initial July 31 deadline approached. However, after public outcry and appeals from various stakeholders, the NCC intervened, ordering the telcos to unbar the affected lines and granting subscribers additional time to complete the linkage process.
The final deadline of September 14, 2024, is seen as the government’s last push to ensure full compliance.