Joy Agwunobi
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched a renewed effort to eliminate the sale and use of pre-registered SIM cards while strengthening regulatory oversight across the country’s telecommunications sector.
The announcement was made during a public inquiry at the NCC headquarters in Abuja, focusing on revisions to three key subsidiary legislations: the Licensing Regulations 2019, Enforcement Process Regulations 2019, and the Internet Code of Practice 2019.
Speaking at the event, Aminu Maida, executive vice chairman of the NCC, represented by Rimini Makama, executive commissioner for stakeholder management, said the regulatory updates are critical to addressing emerging challenges in Nigeria’s fast-evolving communications landscape.
“The updated Enforcement Process Regulations will provide a transparent and accountable framework for compliance monitoring, investigation, and sanctions,” Maida said. He described pre-registered SIM cards and call masking as threats to national security and operator revenue.
Maida also highlighted reforms in the Licensing Regulations, which aim to accommodate technological advancements, streamline business processes, and promote innovation. “The revisions introduce provisions on general authorisations, license renewals, corporate restructuring, and sanctions to encourage innovation and improve ease of doing business,” he added.
In the Internet Code of Practice, Maida noted that the updated guidelines are designed to safeguard user rights, promote open internet access, and ensure service providers uphold ethical and technical standards. Key areas of focus include cybersecurity, data protection, artificial intelligence, child online safety, and anti-spam measures.
Similarly, Chizua Whyte, the head of Legal and Regulatory Services at NCC, represented by Lawrence Abang, head of Dispute and Litigation, said the review followed a six-month consultation process. She emphasised that the amendments reinforce the Commission’s commitment to inclusive and transparent regulation, strengthen compliance mechanisms, and boost investor confidence.
“The communications industry is undergoing significant transformation in this digital era,” Whyte said, stressing the need for regulatory frameworks to evolve in step with technological progress.
