NCC Directs Telecom Operators to Block Subscribers without NIN Linked to SIM

 

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued a directive to telecom operators to block subscribers who have not linked their National Identification Numbers (NIN) to their SIM cards by February 28, 2024. Aminu Maida, the executive vice-chairman of NCC, emphasized the critical national security importance of this measure.

Speaking at the ongoing 45th Kaduna International Trade Fair, Maida, represented by Reuben Mouka, NCC's director of public affairs, stated, "To this end, the commission has directed all telecommunication operators to bar phone lines of subscribers whose lines are not linked to their NINs on or before February 28, 2024."

Maida reiterated the NCC's commitment to ensuring service availability, accessibility, affordability, and sustainability for all consumers leveraging ICT/Telecoms for personal and business activities. He also highlighted the agency's dedication to promoting economic growth through the development of local content and addressing consumer challenges.

Furthermore, the NCC has implemented measures to safeguard consumer and business interests, including a regulatory framework promoting transparency, quality of service, and fair competition. The agency has also established channels for consumer redress to resolve disputes efficiently.

Additionally, Maida mentioned a directive issued on May 17, 2023, for licensed mobile network operators (MNOs) to implement approved Harmonised Short Codes (HSC) to improve the Quality of Experience (QoE) for consumers across all mobile networks. This initiative allows consumers to use the same codes to access services across all networks, such as using *310# to check airtime balance.

The NCC also highlighted the ongoing campaign on National Identification Number-Subscriber Identification Module (NIN-SIM) linkage, urging subscribers to link their NINs to their SIM cards to authenticate and protect their identities. Subscribers without NINs can obtain theirs from National Identification Management Commission (NIMC) enrolment centers or their service providers' customer care centers, requiring a valid ID card and BVN for enrollment. Subscribers can link their NINs to their SIMs by sending NIN followed by their 11-digit NIN to 996 or by dialing 996.