In a bid to manage Nigeria’s numbering resources, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced new numbering format for fixed lines.
In the process, Nigeria’s Fixed-Lines Numbering Format has changed from eight digits to 10 digits by just adding “02” prefix before existing fixed number.
According to the Director, Public Affairs of NCC, Reuben Muoka, the existing numbers will continue to operate concurrently till the cut-over date of December 31, 2023. From January 1, 2024, the new numbering format beginning with “02” prefix will be operational.
Muoka said the old and new number formats are allowed to run concurrently till the cut-over date (December 31, 2023). Thereafter (from January 1, 2024), the new fixed-lines format will assume full recognition across all networks.
For example, in the new order, to dial the hitherto existing numbers for Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kano’s current number format of 014630643, 094630643, 084460643 and 064460643, will now be 02014630643, 02094630643, 02084460643 and 02064460643 respectively in the new numbering format.
The Commission however stated that the change only affects the Fixed Telephone Numbers and not to the existing mobile numbering format.
