The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, has urged Nigerians to verify the approval status of SIM-enabled devices before purchasing them, warning that non-compliant equipment could be denied access to mobile networks under its enhanced Type Approval Compliance framework.
The NCC said consumers could check whether a device was approved for use on Nigerian mobile networks by dialling *315#, visiting its official Device Checker portal or calling the toll-free number 315 for assistance.
The commission explained that the framework strengthens existing regulatory requirements rather than introducing new obligations. It is backed by the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, including Section 132(2), and the Nigerian Communications (Type Approval) Regulations 2024.
The requirements cover SIM-enabled devices designed to connect to Nigerian mobile networks, including smartphones, feature phones, cellular tablets, eligible Internet of Things devices, SIM-enabled point-of-sale terminals and cellular laptops.
The NCC has clarified that phones already connected to Nigerian mobile networks before October 7, 2026, were automatically verified and do not require additional action from their owners.
“Phones already in use, phones bought within Nigeria (brand new or second-hand), and phones passed on from family or friends do not require any action,” the document stated.
However, the commission advised buyers of second-hand devices to verify their status before making payment, noting that previous use on a Nigerian network does not automatically guarantee compliance with all applicable requirements.
For devices purchased abroad for personal use, the NCC said separate verification procedures might apply. Eligible individuals may be required to provide details of their travel history and were advised to call 315 for guidance.
The commission said its Device Checker uses device identification information, including International Mobile Equipment Identity numbers, known as IMEIs, to verify compliance with Type Approval requirements.
It stressed that the system does not give the NCC access to private communications, photographs or other files stored on devices. It also does not enable the commission to monitor calls or track users’ physical movements.
“The technology supporting Device Checker uses device identification information, including IMEI numbers, to verify compliance with NCC Type Approval requirements,” the document stated.
The commission added that device identifiers could be associated with mobile numbers for verification and regulatory compliance purposes.
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The NCC also warned Nigerians against fraudsters seeking to exploit the verification process, particularly through requests for one-time verification codes.
It advised consumers to use only the official USSD service and the commission’s website, cautioning them against sharing verification codes with sellers, callers or other individuals.
“If you start an official verification process, a code may be sent to you: enter it only in that process and never tell the code to a caller, seller or other person,” the commission said.
Consumers who receive unsuccessful verification results were advised not to pay for the affected devices until sellers clarify and resolve the issues.
The NCC emphasised that a device that cannot be verified is not automatically confirmed to be counterfeit.
The commission said manufacturers, importers, suppliers and other businesses placing communications devices on the Nigerian market were responsible for meeting applicable Type Approval and device-verification requirements.
It clarified that consumers buying devices locally were not required to obtain Type Approval themselves, although they were encouraged to confirm compliance before completing purchases.
The NCC also warned that a successful Device Checker result did not guarantee that every component of a device was genuine or that it had no defects, unauthorised repairs or software problems.
It advised buyers to patronise reputable sellers and carry out appropriate checks before purchasing devices.
On stolen phones, the commission said devices could be blocked across Nigerian mobile networks after theft was reported and ownership verified. The measure is intended to prevent unauthorised use and support recovery efforts.
The NCC urged consumers and industry stakeholders to cooperate with the initiative, describing device verification as a measure to detect cloned and counterfeit equipment, strengthen network integrity and protect users.
Pan Afric Report
