The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), has uncovered alarming cases of individuals registering over 100,000 SIM cards to their names. This discovery, made during the ongoing NIN-SIM linkage exercise, underscores the critical importance of adhering to the Commission’s guidelines on SIM card registration.
The NCC has raised concerns about the security risks posed by individuals possessing such an unusually high number of SIM cards. According to the Commission, the mass registration of SIM cards under a single identity could facilitate fraudulent activities and undermine national security. To combat this, the NCC has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with security agencies to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIM cards and safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s telecommunications infrastructure.
Under the current NIN-SIM linkage policy, individuals are permitted to register a maximum of four SIM cards per network operator. This limit is designed to enhance the security of mobile communications and ensure that all SIM cards are linked to valid National Identification Numbers (NINs). However, SIMs used in Internet of Things (IoT) devices, such as wearables and trackers, are exempt from this limit.
As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy, the NCC has emphasized the importance of completing the NIN-SIM linkage process. The Commission has set a final deadline of September 14th, 2024, for all telecom subscribers to link their SIMs with their NINs. Subscribers who fail to meet this deadline will have their SIM cards deactivated by their network operators starting September 15th, 2024.
The NCC has outlined several benefits of the NIN-SIM linkage policy, including enhanced trust and security in digital transactions, reduced risk of fraud and cybercrime, and increased participation in e-commerce, digital banking, and mobile money services. The Commission believes that a fully linked and verified mobile network will promote financial inclusion and drive economic growth in Nigeria.
To date, over 153 million SIM cards have been successfully linked to NINs, reflecting a compliance rate of 96%. However, millions of lines remain unlinked, largely due to irregularities in registered data that have hindered the verification process. The NCC has directed all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to complete the mandatory verification and linkage of SIMs by the September 14th deadline.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
The NCC has issued a stern reminder that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIM cards are criminal offenses, punishable by imprisonment and fines. The Commission urges Nigerians to report any such activities through its toll-free line or social media platforms. Additionally, subscribers who encounter issues with the NIN-SIM linkage process are advised to visit their service providers promptly or utilize the approved self-service portals to update their details.
With the September 14th, 2024, deadline fast approaching, the NCC expects that no SIM card operating in Nigeria will be without a valid NIN by September 15th. The Commission remains committed to ensuring full compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy, thereby enhancing the security of Nigeria’s digital landscape.
