NCC sets Sept 14 as final deadline for NIN-SIM linkage

The NCC has announced Sept 14 as the final deadline for NIN-SIM linkage. Ensure your SIM is linked to your NIN before the cut-off date.

By September 14, 2024, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) mandates that all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) finalize the required authentication and association of Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) with National Identity Numbers.

On Wednesday, the NCC provided an update on the Federal Government’s policy for 2020 to connect all SIMs with NIN.

According to the Commission, 153 million SIMs have been efficiently linked with a NIN so far. This shows a compliance rate of 96%, which is significantly higher than the January 2024 figure of only 69.7%.

The Commission’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, has signed a statement declaring the need for all Nigerians to maintain their cooperation as the country approaches its final phase in order to achieve complete compliance.

According to the statement, joining all SIM cards with NINs is crucial in improving trust and security within our digital economy.

Verifying all mobile users through this policy boosts trust in digital transactions, mitigates the possibility of fraud and cybercrime, and promotes wider involvement in e-commerce, digital banking as well as mobile money services.

Financial inclusion is then encouraged, leading to economic growth.

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The Commission disclosed that in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), it has discovered disturbing instances where individuals had an abnormally large quantity of SIM cards, surpassing 100,000 in some cases.

“The Commission is determined to collaborate with security agencies and other relevant parties in eradicating the trading of pre-registered SIM cards, which will ultimately protect national security and maintain mobile number authenticity within Nigeria.”

To guarantee complete adherence to the NIN-SIM linkage policy, all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) have been instructed to finalize mandatory verification and linking of SIM cards with National Identification Numbers (NINs) on or before September 14th, 2024.

From September 15, 2024 forward, the Commission anticipates that every SIM operating in Nigeria will possess a legitimate NIN.

“We strongly encourage all individuals who have not yet linked their NIN-SIM or who encountered verification discrepancies to promptly visit their service providers and update their information before the deadline. Alternatively, approved self-service portals are available for this purpose.”

The public was reminded by the NCC that both purchasing and selling pre-registered SIMs are illegal activities which can result in imprisonment or fines.

Citizens are urged to inform the Commission about such activities by utilizing our toll-free line (622) or social media channels.

The Commission expressed gratitude to the public for their cooperation in enhancing Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.