The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, has announced that over 153 million Nigerians, representing 96 percent of the population, have successfully linked their Subscriber Identification Modules, SIM, to their National Identity Numbers, NIN.
This marks a significant increase in compliance from the 69.7 percent recorded in January 2024. In a statement issued Wednesday by Director, Public Affairs, Reuben Mouka, the Commission emphasized the importance of achieving 100 percent compliance as the final phase of the NIN-SIM linkage process approaches.
The NCC highlighted that this initiative is crucial for bolstering trust and security in Nigeria’s digital economy by verifying all mobile users, thereby reducing the risk of fraud and cybercrime. The policy is also expected to enhance participation in digital banking, e-commerce, and mobile money services, contributing to greater financial inclusion and economic growth.
The NCC, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser, ONSA and the National Identity Management Commission, NIMC, has uncovered disturbing instances of individuals holding excessive numbers of SIM cards, with some cases involving over 100,000 SIMs.
READ ALSO : NCC updates SIM registration, NIN linkage rules
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to working with security agencies and stakeholders to eliminate the sale of pre-registered SIMs, thus safeguarding national security and ensuring the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.
The NCC has directed all Mobile Network Operators to finalize the mandatory verification and linkage of SIMs to NINs by September 14, 2024. From September 15, 2024, all SIM cards operating in Nigeria must be linked to a valid NIN, or they will be deactivated.
The Commission urged members of the public who have not yet completed the linkage or encountered issues due to verification mismatches to promptly visit their service providers or utilize the approved self-service portals to update their information before the deadline.
The NCC also reminded the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are illegal, with violators subject to imprisonment and fines. Citizens are encouraged to report any such activities via the Commission’s toll-free line (622) or through its social media channels.
The NCC expressed gratitude to the public for their cooperation in enhancing Nigeria’s digital ecosystem and ensuring the successful implementation of the NIN-SIM linkage policy.
Credible News.ng
