NCC Sets September 14 as final deadline for NIN-SIM linkage

Business a.m.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced a deadline of September 14, 2024 for Nigerians to comply with the National Identification Number (NIN) and Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) linkage policy.

Although the initial launch of the NIN-SIM linkage policy occurred in 2020, the NCC reported that substantial progress has been achieved in ensuring its successful implementation across the nation. 

A press statement signed by Reuben Muoka, director, Public Affairs at NCC, read: “To date, over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to a NIN, reflecting an impressive compliance rate of 96 per cent, a substantial increase from 69.7 per cent in January 2024.

“As we approach the final phase of this critical process, the NCC seeks the continued cooperation of all Nigerians to achieve 100 per cent compliance. The complete linkage of all SIM cards to NINs is essential for enhancing the trust and security of our digital economy. 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.

“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 also remains committed to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, thereby safeguarding national security and ensuring the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.

“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.

“Effective September 15, 2024, the Commission expects that no SIM operating in Nigeria will be without a valid NIN.”

With the deadline fast approaching, the NCC urged all members of the public who have not yet completed the NIN-SIM linkage process or who have faced issues related to verification errors to take immediate action. The commission also called on these individuals to visit their telecom service provider offices or take advantage of the approved self-service portals to update their information before the deadline elapses. 

The NCC further cautioned the general public against the buying or selling of pre-registered SIM cards, stressing that such acts constitute criminal offenses punishable by imprisonment and fines. The commission encouraged citizens to report any observed instances of this illegal activity by reaching out via its toll-free line (622) or through its social media platforms.