The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed all mobile network operators to complete the mandatory verification and linkage of Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) to National Identification Numbers (NINs) by September 14, 2024.
The NCC Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.
He said the directive was aimed at ensuring full compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy.
The spokesman added that significant progress had been recorded in the Federal Government’s policy to link all SIMs to NINs.
According to him, over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to their NINs since the exercise started.
He stressed that reflected an impressive compliance rate of 96 percent compared to 69.7 percent recorded in January.
Muoka said: “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.”
He revealed that the commission through collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) had uncovered alarming cases.
“These include cases where individuals possessed an unusually high number of SIM cards, some exceeding 100,000.
“We remained committed to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs.
“This is to safeguard national security and ensure the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria,” the spokesman added.
