The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced that the final deadline for telecom subscribers to link their National Identification Number (NIN) with their Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards is September 14, 2024.
Nigeria, Lagos-This directive is part of a broader federal initiative to streamline Nigeria’s digital identification system. In a significant move towards enhancing national security and curbing identity theft, Recent investigations by the NCC, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), have revealed alarming cases where individuals were found to possess an excessive number of SIM cards, with some holding more than 100,000.
This shocking discovery underscores the urgent need for the NIN-SIM linkage, which aims to prevent such practices that pose severe risks to national security.
The NCC has reiterated that the September 14 deadline is non-negotiable, warning that any SIM cards not linked to a valid NIN by this date will be disconnected from telecom networks, thereby disrupting access to essential communication services. The initiative, which began in December 2020, has seen several deadline extensions to accommodate subscribers, but the Commission has made it clear that this is the final opportunity for compliance.
Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating,
“The NIN-SIM linkage is crucial for national security and for enabling government agencies to provide better services to citizens. We urge all subscribers to ensure their NINs are linked to their SIM cards before the September 14 deadline to avoid any disruption in their communication services.”
The NCC has also directed all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to ensure the mandatory verification and linkage of SIMs to NINs is completed by the deadline. Effective September 15, 2024, any SIM card operating in Nigeria without a valid NIN will be rendered inactive.
The Commission reassures the public that the process of linking NINs to SIM cards is straightforward and can be completed through various platforms provided by mobile network operators, including USSD codes, mobile apps, and visits to service centers. Additionally, the NCC has issued a stern warning that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIM cards are criminal offenses, punishable by imprisonment and fines.
In light of the recent uncovering of individuals with large numbers of SIM cards, the NCC remains committed to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to eliminate the sale of pre-registered SIMs. This effort is vital for safeguarding national security and ensuring the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.
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