NCC Directs Telcos to Block SIMs Without NIN
Telecommuncation companies (Telcos) have been directed to block subscriber identification modules (SIMs) that are not already linked with their national identification numbers (NIN). The Nigeria Communications Commission, NCC, issued the directive a matter of critical national security.
Specifically, the commission directed that all telecommunication operators should block phone lines of subscribers whose lines are not linked to their NINs on or before February 28, 2024.
Speaking at the NCC special day at the ongoing 45th Kaduna International Trade Fair, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Aminu Maida, said one major objective of linking subscribers’ NIN to SIM is to help improve and enhance national security in the country.
To link the NIN to one’s SIM, he explained that a subscriber needs to submit his/her NIN to their respective Service Provider to complete the process of NIN-SIM linkage.
He explained, “As a regulator of the telecommunications sector in the country, the Commission carries out its functions to ensure service availability, accessibility, affordability, and sustainability for all categories of consumers, who are leveraging ICT/Telecoms to drive personal and business activities.”
He said the NCC has established a robust regulatory framework that promotes transparency, quality of service, and fair competition, adding that it has set up channels for consumer redress, ensuring that consumers can resolve disputes in a timely and efficient manner.
With this year’s trade fair theme, “Sustaining Economic Recovery through Deepening Local Content Value Chain” he stated that it is extremely important, as it resonates deeply with the principles and objectives of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on the promotion of local content development in the telecoms industry”. #NCC Directs Telcos to Block SIMs Without NIN
