NCC Sets September 14 As Final Deadline For NIN-SIM Linkage

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has set September 14 as the final deadline for linking the National Identification Number (NIN) with mobile phone SIM cards.

The NCC spokesperson, Reuben Muoka announced this in a statement on Wednesday, August 28.

He instructed all mobile network operators to complete the verification and linking of SIM cards to NINs before September 14, 2024.

Muoka stated that over 153 million SIM cards have already been linked to NINs, showing a high compliance rate of 96%, which is a significant increase from 69.7% in January 2024.

“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,” the statement read.

The NCC, in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), said it has discovered concerning cases involving unlinked SIMs.

The commission remains committed to working with security agencies and other partners to stop the sale of pre-registered SIMs to protect national security and maintain the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.

The NCC urged anyone who has not completed their NIN-SIM linkage or who has faced issues due to mismatched details to visit their service provider immediately to update their information before the deadline.

“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,” it said.

KanyiDaily recalls that Telecom giant MTN recently closed all its offices and service centers across Nigeria due to uproar from subscribers after the network provider barred their lines.