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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has revealed alarming cases where individuals possessed an unusually high number of Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards.
RELATED: NIMC, NCC announced joint efforts to enhance NIN-SIM linkage processes
In some instances, some individuals exceed 100,000. This discovery was made in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
The telecom regulator emphasised its commitment to working with security agencies to eliminate the sale of pre-registered SIMs. This is a criminal offense in Nigeria.
All SIM cards must be registered and linked
NCC reiterated that all SIM cards must be registered and linked to a subscriber’s National Identification Number (NIN) to safeguard national security and maintain the integrity of mobile numbers.
The final deadline for telecom subscribers to link their NIN with their SIM cards is now set for September 14, 2024. After this date, all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) will disconnect subscribers whose SIMs are not linked to their NINs. This is part of a broader federal effort to enhance national security and prevent identity theft. The move will help streamline Nigeria’s digital identification system.
To date, more than 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to NINs, reflecting a compliance rate of 96%.
“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,” the NCC stated in an official release.
