The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has extended the deadline for linking Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) with National Identity Numbers (NINs) to September 14, 2024. This extension, announced on Wednesday, requires all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to complete the SIM-NIN linkage by the new date.
The NCC reported that over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to NINs, achieving a compliance rate of 96%, up from 69.7% in January 2024. Reuben Muoka, NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, noted that the commission is nearing the final phase of the linkage process and calls for continued cooperation from Nigerians to achieve full compliance.
The NCC stressed that completing the SIM-NIN linkage is vital for enhancing the security of Nigeria’s digital economy. “Verifying all mobile users strengthens trust in digital transactions, reduces fraud and cybercrime, and supports greater participation in e-commerce and digital banking,” the statement read, underscoring the policy’s role in financial inclusion and economic growth.
The commission also disclosed that collaborations with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) have revealed cases of individuals holding excessive numbers of SIM cards, some exceeding 100,000. The NCC remains committed to addressing the issue of pre-registered SIMs with security agencies to protect national security and ensure the integrity of mobile numbers.
The NCC urged Nigerians who have not completed their SIM-NIN linkage or faced verification issues to update their details with service providers before the new deadline. The commission also warned that buying or selling pre-registered SIMs is illegal, with penalties including imprisonment and fines. Citizens are encouraged to report such activities to the NCC via its toll-free line (622) or through its social media platforms.
The NCC reported that over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to NINs, achieving a compliance rate of 96%, up from 69.7% in January 2024. Reuben Muoka, NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, noted that the commission is nearing the final phase of the linkage process and calls for continued cooperation from Nigerians to achieve full compliance.
The NCC stressed that completing the SIM-NIN linkage is vital for enhancing the security of Nigeria’s digital economy. “Verifying all mobile users strengthens trust in digital transactions, reduces fraud and cybercrime, and supports greater participation in e-commerce and digital banking,” the statement read, underscoring the policy’s role in financial inclusion and economic growth.
The commission also disclosed that collaborations with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) have revealed cases of individuals holding excessive numbers of SIM cards, some exceeding 100,000. The NCC remains committed to addressing the issue of pre-registered SIMs with security agencies to protect national security and ensure the integrity of mobile numbers.
The NCC urged Nigerians who have not completed their SIM-NIN linkage or faced verification issues to update their details with service providers before the new deadline. The commission also warned that buying or selling pre-registered SIMs is illegal, with penalties including imprisonment and fines. Citizens are encouraged to report such activities to the NCC via its toll-free line (622) or through its social media platforms.
