Over the weekend, countless telecom subscribers found themselves cut off from their phone lines, unable to make calls or send texts. The root of the issue was the widespread failure to verify their National Identification Numbers (NINs) with their Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs). This verification snag left many frustrated and disconnected, highlighting the challenges in the telecom sector’s efforts to synchronize these essential identification systems.Due to the NIN-SIM linkage regulations, telecom service providers blocked their numbers, adhering to the relevant laws and policies.
According to a press statement signed by the director public Affairs of NCC, Reuben Mouka, it states that in December 2020, the government mandated that all SIM cards be linked to National Identification Numbers (NIN) as part of a new policy aimed at enhancing security and regulatory compliance. This directive required telecom companies to block any unregistered SIM cards or those not linked to a NIN, prompting consumers to swiftly comply to avoid disruptions in service. The initiative was met with a mixture of urgency and apprehension, as the public navigated the new requirement to ensure their mobile connections remained active.
Since December 2023, the Commission has periodically revisited the deadline for barring subscribers with unverified National Identification Numbers (NIN). The latest deadline, set for April 15, 2024, targets those with four or fewer SIM cards who have yet to verify their NIN details.
The deadline for linking phone lines to verified National Identification Numbers (NIN) has been extended to July 31, 2024, providing consumers with additional time to ensure their NIN details are properly verified. Despite these extensions, a significant number of phone lines remain unlinked and unverified, leaving many users at risk of disconnection.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced the NIN-SIM linkage policy with two main objectives: enhancing national security and ensuring the accuracy of the national SIM ownership database. By linking National Identification Numbers (NIN) with SIM cards, the government aims to verify and protect users’ identities. This policy also establishes a critical infrastructure, paving the way for citizens to access the numerous benefits of a robust digital economy
Due to recent disruptions, the Commission has mandated all operators to restore service to lines disconnected over the weekend, recognizing the limited time consumers had to link their National Identification Numbers (NIN) with their SIM cards. This reactivation is temporary, providing consumers an extended window to complete the necessary verification. Ensuring the consumer’s convenience remains our top priority.
It should be noted at this juncture that to ensure uninterrupted access to their mobile services, all individuals who have not yet verified their SIM cards are urged to complete the verification process promptly. This essential step will help maintain the connectivity and functionality of their lines.
