Mobile phone technicians in Nigeria have called on the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, to enforce the registration of mobile phones at the point of purchase. They believe this measure will significantly reduce phone theft and aid in tracking stolen devices.

The Association of Mobile Communication Device Technicians of Nigeria, AMCODET, made the appeal on Monday during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos. The group’s president, Kehinde Apara, emphasized that phone registration would make it difficult for criminals to sell stolen devices.

He lamented that many of their members face harassment from security agencies because they unknowingly repair or unlock stolen phones. Apara stressed that technicians are not law enforcement officers and cannot determine whether a phone brought for repair is stolen.

“If phones are registered at the point of sale, technicians will have access to information that can help identify stolen devices. This will protect both our members and the public,” he said.

AMCODET also highlighted its role in proposing the National Identification Number– SIM linkage policy to the NCC as a measure to enhance security and curb theft. However, Apara argued that linking SIM cards alone is not enough to address the rising cases of mobile phone theft.

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The association has been actively organizing seminars and sensitization campaigns to educate the public on the importance of mobile phone security. Apara reiterated their willingness to collaborate with security agencies to ensure that phone registration becomes a reality.

Beyond tackling theft, AMCODET believes that stronger regulations in the mobile phone industry will boost local technological development. Apara urged individuals and private organizations to invest in the industry rather than relying solely on government intervention.

He expressed confidence in Nigeria’s ability to develop its own mobile technology if given the right support. Encouraging innovation, he said the country has the talent and potential to manufacture its own devices instead of depending on imported technology.

AMCODET’s call for phone registration aligns with global trends where stricter regulations on mobile device ownership have helped in combating crime. The association remains optimistic that with the necessary backing, Nigeria will take a step closer to a more secure and self-reliant technology industry.

With rising concerns over phone theft and fraud, the group is hopeful that the NCC and other stakeholders will take urgent action to implement their proposal, ensuring a safer digital environment for Nigerians.

NAN