- Safiu Kehinde
The Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) has, yesterday announced September 14 as the new deadline for subscribers to link their National Identification Number (NIN) to Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by NCC’s Director, Public Affairs, Mr. Reuben Muoka.
According to the statement, the NIN-SIM Linkage is essential for enhancing trust and security of Nigeria’s digital economy.
NCC, disclosed how they had, in partnership with the office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), identify users in possession of large amounts of SIM cards
“As we approach the final phase of this critical process, the NCC seeks the continued cooperation of all Nigerians to achieve 100 percent compliance.
“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.
“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.” the statement read.
The has, however, directed all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to complete the mandatory verification and linkage of SIMs to NINs by September 14, 2024.