NCC Announces Final Deadline for NIN-SIM Linkage

NCC Announces Final Deadline for NIN-SIM Linkage

To ensure full compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has mandated all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to complete the verification and linkage of SIMs to National Identification Numbers (NINs) by September 14, 2024.

Effective September 15, 2024, the Commission expects that no SIM operating in Nigeria will be without a valid NIN.

This was disclosed in a statement in Abuja on Wednesday signed by Reuben Muoka, the Director of Public Affairs.

The NCC also urged Nigerians who have not yet completed their NIN-SIM linkage, or those who have encountered issues due to verification mismatches, to promptly visit their service providers to update their information before the deadline. Approved self-service portals are also available for this purpose.

According to the statement, the Commission reminded the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offenses punishable by imprisonment and fines. Citizens are encouraged to report any such activities to the NCC via its toll-free line (622) or through its social media platforms.

THECONSCIENCE NG reports that significant progress has been made in the Federal Government’s 2020 policy to link all Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) to National Identity Numbers (NINs). To date, over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to a NIN, reflecting an impressive compliance rate of 96 percent—up from 69.7 percent in January 2024.

“As we approach the final phase of this critical process, the NCC seeks the continued cooperation of all Nigerians to achieve 100 percent compliance,” Mouka stated.

“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, thereby promoting financial inclusion and driving economic growth,” he noted.

He stated: “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 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.”