By Marvellous Nkanu
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCCF) has set September 14 as the deadline for National Identity Management (NIN) and Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) linkage.
This was announced in Abuja on Wednesday by Dr. Reuben Muoka, the Director of Public Affairs, NCC.
He described it as a remarkable progress of the federal government policy to link all NIN-SIM across the 36 states of the federation.
According to Dr. Muoka, an estimate of 153 million SIMs had been successfully linked, showing a compliance rate of 96 percent.
“As we approach the final phase of this critical process, the NCC seeks the continued support of all Nigerians to achieve 100 percent compliance. The complete linkage of all SIM cards to NIN 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.”
He said the NCC in collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), have exposed alarming cases of individuals with high number of SIM cards.
“The Commission also remains committed to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to crackdown on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, thereby safeguarding national security and ensuring integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.
“To ensure full compliance with the NIN/SIM linkage policy, the NCC has directed all Mobile Network Operations (MNOs) to complete the mandatory verification and linkage of SIMs to NIN by September 14, 2024.
“Effective September 15, the Commission expects that no SIM operating in Nigeria will be without a vital NIN.”
Dr. Reuben also encouraged individuals who are yet to complete their verification exercise to quickly visit their network service providers to do the needful.
“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 offenses, 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 it’s continued cooperation as we work together to strengthen Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.”
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