The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued a directive to all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to complete the mandatory verification and linkage of Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) to National Identity Numbers (NINs) by September 14, 2024. This directive follows the Federal Government’s 2020 policy aimed at linking all NINs to SIMs to enhance digital security and trust.

In an update provided on Wednesday, the NCC reported significant progress in the NIN-SIM linkage initiative. To date, over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to a NIN, reflecting a compliance rate of 96%, a notable increase from the 69.7% recorded in January 2024.

The Commission emphasized the importance of this final phase of the process, urging all Nigerians to ensure 100% compliance. In a statement signed by Reuben Muoka, Director of Public Affairs, the NCC highlighted the critical role the NIN-SIM linkage plays in bolstering the security of Nigeria’s digital economy.

“The complete linkage of all SIM cards to NINs is essential for enhancing the trust and security of our digital economy,” the statement read. “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.”

The NCC also revealed that, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), it has uncovered alarming instances where individuals possessed an unusually high number of SIM cards, with some exceeding 100,000. The Commission reiterated its commitment to working with security agencies to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, thereby safeguarding national security and ensuring the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.

To ensure full compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy, the NCC has instructed all MNOs to complete the verification and linkage process by September 14, 2024. The Commission has made it clear that, effective September 15, 2024, no SIM operating in Nigeria will be without a valid NIN.

“We urge all members of the public who have not yet completed their NIN-SIM linkage, or who have faced issues due to verification mismatches, to visit their service providers promptly to update their details before the deadline. Alternatively, the approved self-service portals are available for this purpose,” the NCC advised.

The NCC also reminded the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offenses punishable by imprisonment and fines. The Commission encouraged citizens to report any such activities via its toll-free line (622) or through its social media platforms.

The NCC expressed gratitude to the general public for their cooperation in the ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.