Fresh Anxiety as NCC Sets New Deadline to Disconnect SIM for NIN linkage

The Federal Government has through the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), set a new deadline for subscribers to ensure they link their Subscribers Identity Modules (SIM) with the their National Identity Numbers (NIN).

The government also raised alarm over the acquisition of multiple SIM Numbers cards by individuals, saying some individuals have in their possession more than 100,000 SIM cards.

The government directed all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to ensure that all subscribers linked their SIM with NIN latest 14 September 2024. It added that from 15th of September, the MNOs should disconnect any SIM not linked with the NIN.

According to a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs of the NCC, Reuben Muoka, the Commission said through collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) it has been able to establish the security implications of individuals acquiring multiple SIM cards through unauthorised sources in the country.

The Commission emphasized the imperative of cleaning up the system within the shortest possible time, and urged MNOs to adhere strictly to the directive of the government.

The NCC admitted that significant progress has been recorded by the Government’s 2020 policy to link all Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) to National Identity Numbers (NINs).

It noted that till date over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to NIN, reflecting an impressive compliance rate of 96 per cent, a substantial increase from 69.7 per cent in January 2024.

The NCC’s statement reads: “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.

“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.

“The Commission thanks the general public for its continued cooperation as we work together to strengthen Nigeria’s digital ecosystem”