Subscribers Given September 14 ‘Final Deadline’ For NIN-SIM Linkage
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has set September 14 as the ‘last date’ for linking the National Identification Number (NIN) to the Subscriber Identification Module.
Reuben Muoka, NCC spokesman, said this in a statement on Wednesday, asking all mobile network operators (MNOs) to complete SIM verification and linking to NINs by September 14, 2024.
According to Mouka, over 153 million SIMs have been linked to their NINs, “reflecting an impressive compliance rate of 96 percent, a substantial increase from 69.7 percent in January 2024.”
“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,” according to a statement.
“Effective September 15, 2024, the Commission expects that no SIM operating in Nigeria will be without a valid NIN.”
According to the commission, the NCC has discovered concerning situations in coordination with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
The NCC also stated that it would continue to collaborate with security agencies and other stakeholders to combat the sale of pre-registered SIMs, citing the need to protect national security and guarantee the integrity of Nigerian mobile numbers.
The commission stated that beginning September 15, 2024, no SIM functioning in Nigeria would be without 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 contact their service providers as soon as possible to update their information before the deadline.”
“Alternatively, authorised self-service portals are accessible for this purpose. The NCC further cautions the public that selling and purchasing pre-registered SIM cards is a criminal offence punishable by imprisonment and penalties.
“We encourage citizens to report any such activities to the Commission via our toll-free line (622) or through our social media platforms,” according to the statement.
PRESS STATEMENT
NCC Sets Final Deadline for NIN-SIM Linkage Compliance Pic. twitter.com/bj5LOVxkUq
— ncc.gov.ng (@NgComCommission), August 28, 2024.