BREAKING: NCC Sets September 14 as Final Deadline for SIM-NIN Linkage

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has set September 14 as the final deadline for Nigerians to link their Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) with National Identity Numbers (NINs).

According to the NCC, a total of 153 million SIMs have now been linked to NINs, reflecting a significant compliance rate of 96 percent, up from 69.7 percent in January 2024 EKO HOT BLOG reports.

In a press release signed by Reuben Muoka, NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, the Commission described this achievement as a major milestone in the Federal Government’s 2020 policy aimed at linking all SIMs to NINs.

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The NCC states the importance of complete SIM-NIN linkage for enhancing digital security and trust. This policy is designed to improve confidence in digital transactions, reduce the risk of fraud and cybercrime, and support broader participation in e-commerce, digital banking, and mobile money services, thus fostering financial inclusion and economic growth.

The Commission noted its collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) in uncovering instances where individuals held an unusually high number of SIM cards, with some exceeding 100,000.

Additionally, the NCC is committed to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to combat the sale of pre-registered SIMs, thereby ensuring the integrity of mobile numbers and national security.

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To ensure full compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy, all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) have been directed to complete the verification and linkage process by September 14, 2024. Starting September 15, 2024, no SIM operating in Nigeria should be without a valid NIN.

The NCC urges anyone who has not yet completed their NIN-SIM linkage or who has encountered verification issues to visit their service providers or use the approved self-service portals before the deadline. The Commission also reminds the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offenses subject to imprisonment and fines, and encourages reporting of such activities via their toll-free line (622) or social media platforms.

The NCC thanks the public for its cooperation in strengthening Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.

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