The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has instructed all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to finalize the mandatory verification and linkage of Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) with National Identity Numbers (NINs) by September 14, 2024.
On Wednesday, the NCC provided an update on the Federal Government’s 2020 policy requiring the linkage of all NINs to SIMs.
According to the Commission, over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to NINs so far, achieving a compliance rate of 96%, a significant rise from 69.7% in January 2024.
In a statement signed by Reuben Muoka, Director of Public Affairs, the Commission urged Nigerians to continue cooperating as the country enters the final phase of this process, aiming for 100% compliance.
“The complete linkage of all SIM cards to NINs is crucial for enhancing the security and trust within our digital economy,” the statement read.
“By verifying all mobile users, this policy boosts confidence in digital transactions, reduces the risk of fraud and cybercrime, and supports greater involvement in e-commerce, digital banking, and mobile money services, which in turn promotes financial inclusion and drives economic growth.”
The Commission also revealed, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), that they have discovered alarming instances of individuals possessing an unusually large number of SIM cards, with some exceeding 100,000.
Additionally, the NCC affirmed its commitment to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, thereby protecting national security and ensuring the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.
To ensure full compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy, the Commission reiterated its directive for MNOs to complete the mandatory verification and linkage of SIMs to NINs by September 14, 2024.
“Starting from 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 encountered issues due to verification mismatches, to visit their service providers promptly to update their details before the deadline.
Alternatively, approved self-service portals are available for this purpose.”
The NCC also reminded the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs is a criminal offense 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 expressed its gratitude to the public for their cooperation in strengthening Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
 has instructed all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to finalize the mandatory verification and linkage of Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) with National Identity Numbers (NINs) by September 14, 2024.){kind=link}