The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) says over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to National Identity Numbers NIN across the country.
The Director, Public Affairs, of the Commission, Reuben Muoka, who disclosed this, stated that this reflects an impressive compliance rate of 96 per cent and a substantial increase from 69.7 per cent recorded in January 2024.
“The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is pleased to announce significant progress in the Federal Government’s 2020 policy to link all Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) to National Identity Numbers (NINs).
“To date, over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to a NIN, reflecting an impressive compliance rate of 96 per cent, a substantial increase from 69.7 per cent in January 2024”, he said.
Stressing that the complete linkage of all SIM cards to NINs was essential for enhancing the trust and security of the digital economy, the Commission sought the continued cooperation of all Nigerians to achieve 100 per cent
He restated the commitment of the Commission to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, thereby safeguarding national security and ensuring the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria
“As we approach the final phase of this critical process, the NCC seeks the continued cooperation of all Nigerians to achieve 100 .
“The complete linkage of all SIM cards to NINs is essential for enhancing the trust and security of our digital economy. By verifying all mobile users, this policy strengthens confidence in digital transactions, reduces the risk of fraud and cybercrime, and supports greater participation in e-commerce, digital banking, and mobile money services. This, in turn, promotes financial inclusion and drives economic growth, “he said.
To ensure full compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy, the NCC directed all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to complete the mandatory verification and linkage of SIMs to NINs by September 14, 2024.
“Through collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), the NCC has uncovered alarming cases where individuals possessed an unusually high number of SIM cards—some exceeding 100,000.
“The Commission also remains committed to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, thereby safeguarding national security and ensuring the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria
“Effective September 15, 2024, the Commission expects that no SIM operating in Nigeria will be without a valid NIN,” he said.
The Commission however urged members of the public who are yet to omplete their NIN-SIM linkage, or faced issues due to verification mismatches, to visit their service providers promptly to update their details before the deadline, or use the approved self-service portals.
The NCC also reminded the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offences punishable by imprisonment and fines.
The Commission encouraged citizens to report such activities to the Commission through its toll-free line (622) or through its social media platforms
