The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced that all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) must complete the linkage of Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) to National Identity Numbers (NINs) by September 14.
On Wednesday, August 28, the NCC updated the public on the Federal Government’s 2020 policy, which mandates that all NINs be linked to SIMs. As of now, over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked, representing a compliance rate of 96%, up from 69.7% in January 2024.
Reuben Muoka, Director of Public Affairs at the NCC, stated, “The complete linkage of all SIM cards to NINs is crucial for enhancing the trust and security of our digital economy.”
He added that verifying all mobile users will boost confidence in digital transactions, reduce fraud and cybercrime, and encourage greater participation in e-commerce, digital banking, and mobile money services, thereby promoting financial inclusion and economic growth.
The NCC, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), has discovered concerning cases of individuals holding excessively high numbers of SIM cards, with some exceeding 100,000.
The Commission is committed to working with security agencies to address the issue of pre-registered SIMs to protect national security and maintain the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.
To ensure compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy, the NCC has directed all MNOs to complete the verification and linkage process by September 14. Starting September 15, no SIM operating in Nigeria should be without a valid NIN.
The NCC urges anyone who has not yet linked their NIN to their SIM, or who has faced verification issues, to visit their service providers or use the approved self-service portals before the deadline. The sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are illegal and punishable by imprisonment and fines.
For reporting illegal SIM activities, citizens are encouraged to contact the NCC via the toll-free line (622) or through its social media platforms.
The NCC thanked the public for their cooperation in strengthening Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
