The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has declared September 14 as the due date for the mandatory linkage of the National Identification Number (NIN) with Subscriber Identification Module (SIM).
This directive aims at ensuring full compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy across the country.
This announcement was disclosed in a statement by NCC spokesman, Reuben Muoka, on Wednesday, directing all mobile network operators (MNOs) to complete the verification and linkage of SIMs to NINs by September 14, 2024.
Mouka revealed that over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to their NINs, achieving a 96% compliance rate.
Additionally, he emphasized that from September 15, 2024, no SIM card operating in Nigeria will be allowed to function without a valid NIN.
“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,” the statement read.
“Effective September 15, 2024, the Commission expects that no SIM operating in Nigeria will be without a valid NIN.”
According to the commission, the NCC in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), discovered significant breaches in SIM registration processes, leading to increased efforts to eliminate the sale of pre-registered SIMs.
The NCC said that it also remained committed to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, adding that that this was to safeguard national security and ensure the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.
“We urge all members of the public who have not yet completed their NIN-SIM linkage, or who have faced issues due to verification mismatches, to visit their service providers promptly to update their details before the deadline.
“Alternatively, the approved self-service portals are available for this purpose. The NCC also reminds the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offences punishable by imprisonment and fines.
“We encourage citizens to report any such activities to the Commission via our toll-free line (622) or through our social media platforms,” it said.
