The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced September 14, 2024, as the final deadline for the completion of the National Identity Number (NIN) and Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) linkage process. This directive is part of the Federal Government’s 2020 initiative aimed at enhancing the security and trust of Nigeria’s digital ecosystem by ensuring all SIM cards are linked to a valid NIN.
As of now, the NCC reports that over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to NINs, representing a compliance rate of 96%, a notable increase from 69.7% in January 2024. This significant progress highlights the public’s cooperation in the ongoing effort to secure Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.
The NCC emphasized the importance of achieving 100% compliance, noting that the NIN-SIM linkage is crucial for bolstering confidence in digital transactions, reducing the risk of fraud and cybercrime, and fostering greater participation in e-commerce, digital banking, and mobile money services. The linkage is also expected to promote financial inclusion and drive economic growth in the country.
In collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), the NCC has uncovered cases where individuals possessed an excessive number of SIM cards—some surpassing 100,000. The Commission remains committed to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to combat the sale of pre-registered SIMs, which poses a threat to national security.
Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) have been instructed to complete the mandatory verification and linkage of SIMs to NINs by the September 14 deadline. Effective September 15, 2024, any SIM operating in Nigeria without a valid NIN will be considered non-compliant.
The NCC urges members of the public who have not yet completed their NIN-SIM linkage, or who have experienced verification issues, to promptly update their details with their service providers. The Commission also offers self-service portals for those who wish to complete the process online.
Additionally, the NCC reminds the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offenses, punishable by imprisonment and fines. Citizens are encouraged to report any such activities to the Commission through its toll-free line (622) or via social media platforms.
The NCC thanked the general public for its continued cooperation in strengthening Nigeria’s digital ecosystem and ensuring a safer, more secure digital environment for all.