- NCC removes all unregistered SIMs from telecom networks nationwide.
- Media says fake identity use in SIM registration remains a crime.
- Commission to unveil public network map and enforce new governance rules.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced that all unregistered Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards have been successfully removed from the country’s telecommunications networks.
The regulator described the move as a crucial milestone in safeguarding national security and strengthening cyber protection.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Aminu Maida, disclosed this during a media briefing in Abuja on Monday. He, however, admitted that while unregistered SIMs are no longer active, some subscribers may have used false identities during registration.
“No unregistered SIM is operating on the network as of today. However, there may be people using names they did not originally register with in order to conceal their identities. While the NCC cannot control the names used during registration, it is an offence in Nigeria to operate with false information,” Maida warned.
The EVC added that the Commission was working on reforms to stabilise the sector and ensure subscribers benefit from improved quality of service and competitive tariffs. He revealed that in September, the NCC would unveil a public map to show which operators provide the best coverage and tariff options in different locations.
Maida also stressed the need for additional capital injection into the industry, while highlighting revised corporate governance guidelines that require operators to provide audited reports to boost investor confidence.
On recent tariff adjustments, he explained that the decision was necessary after more than a decade of operating without a cost-reflective framework. He assured that the NCC carefully balanced the interests of operators and subscribers before approving new rates.
The Commission further pledged to engage state governments to curb multiple taxation and protect telecom infrastructure, which Maida said would translate into better services and stronger national security.
