In response to the recent disruptions caused by the inability of telecom consumers to verify their National Identification Numbers (NINs) with their Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs), the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued an order for the immediate reactivation of lines affected by the NIN-SIM verification issues.
Over the weekend, many telecom subscribers were left without access to their phone lines as their numbers were blocked by service providers due to the non-compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy.
The compulsory linkage of NIN with SIM cards was introduced by the government in December 2020, with the aim of enhancing national security and ensuring the accuracy of the national SIM ownership database. Telecom companies were directed to bar unregistered SIM cards and SIMs that were not linked to NIN.
Since then, the NCC has extended the deadline for NIN-SIM verification multiple times. Initially set for April 15, 2024, the deadline was later revised to July 31, 2024, to allow consumers more time to complete the verification process. However, despite these extensions, a significant number of phone lines remain unlinked to verified NINs.
Recognizing the challenges caused by the recent blockages, the NCC has prioritized consumer satisfaction and directed all operators to reactivate the lines that were disconnected over the weekend. This temporary reactivation will provide consumers with a limited period to properly link their NINs to their SIM cards.
The NCC emphasizes the importance of prompt NIN-SIM verification for all members of the public who have not yet completed the process. It is crucial to maintain access to their phone lines and ensure compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy.
