Final Deadline for NIN-SIM Linkage Announced

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has set a final deadline of September 14, 2024, for the mandatory linkage of National Identification Numbers (NINs) with Subscriber Identity Modules (SIMs). 

After this date, any SIM not linked to a valid NIN will be disconnected.

The NCC’s push for 100% compliance in the NIN-SIM linkage process has yielded significant results so far. 

Over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked, reaching a 96% compliance rate, up from 69.7% in January 2024. 

However, the commission remains committed to achieving full compliance, emphasizing the critical importance of the NIN-SIM linkage for the growth and security of Nigeria’s digital economy.

Cracking Down on Excessive SIM Ownership

In collaboration with the National Security Adviser and the National Identity Management Commission, the NCC has uncovered cases of individuals with an excessive number of SIM cards, some with over 100,000. 

The commission is taking decisive action against this practice, as well as the illegal sale of pre-registered SIMs, to ensure the integrity of the NIN-SIM linkage process.

A Challenging Journey with Deadlines and Disconnections

The federal government first announced the NIN-SIM linkage policy in December 2020, and the NCC has been extending deadlines since then. 

Telcos like MTN have reported that this directive has impacted their operations, even barring 8.6 million subscribers at one point. 

However, the NCC has shown flexibility by allowing more time for users to complete the process after temporarily reversing some disconnections.

Urging Users to Update Details Before the Deadline

With the September 14 deadline fast approaching, the NCC is urging anyone who hasn’t yet linked their NIN or who has experienced issues with mismatches to update their details with their service provider before the deadline to avoid losing service. 

The commission emphasizes the importance of this final deadline and the consequences of non-compliance, as unlinked SIMs will be disconnected after the cutoff date.

Read Next: NCC Orders Quick Reactivation of Lines Affected by NIN-SIM Verification

Conclusion

The NCC’s determination to achieve 100% compliance in the NIN-SIM linkage process is a testament to its commitment to enhancing security and trust in Nigeria’s digital economy. 

Despite the challenges faced along the way, the commission remains steadfast in its efforts to ensure that every SIM card is linked to a valid NIN by the final deadline of September 14, 2024. 

As the deadline approaches, it is crucial for all mobile users in Nigeria to heed the NCC’s call and complete the NIN-SIM linkage process to avoid service disruptions and contribute to the overall security and growth of the nation’s digital landscape.

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