New NIN-SIM Linkage Deadline Extension

The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has appealed to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to extend the NIN-SIM Linkage deadline from September 14 to September 30.

This move comes as telecoms disconnect unlinked lines after the September 14 deadline.

NATCOMS Request For NIN-SIM Linkage Extension

The National President of NATCOMS, Mr. Deolu Ogunbanjo, highlighted the pressing need for the extension due to persistent issues with the NIMC portal’s capacity. 

The NCC had initially set the deadline to ensure that all mobile users link their SIM cards to their National Identification Number (NIN) by September 14.

This initiative aims to bolster digital security and combat fraud and cybercrime.

Ogunbanjo further stated the telecom operators at customer centres often struggled to upload information on the NIMC portal. He highlighted that difficulties in uploading on the NIMC portal had frustrated the process and caused delays.

He said, ‘’We are experiencing significant issues with the NIMC portal. The portal’s inability to handle the high volume of uploads has led to delays and frustrations for both telecom operators and subscribers.”

“As I visited the customer centres of Airtel and MTN, I witnessed firsthand the struggles they faced in uploading data to the NIMC portal.” 

“We urge the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to extend the deadline to September 30, which would allow NIMC to enhance its portal capacity and improve the process for everyone involved.” 

Also Read: Final Deadline for NIN-SIM Linkage Announced

NIN-SIM Linkage To Improve Digital Security 

Recall, in August 2024, the NCC announced significant progress in the policy to link all SIMs to NINs, highlighting a 96% compliance rate at the time, saying over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to a NIN, an increase from 69.7% in January 2024.

It also said from September 15, 2024, it expects no SIM operating in Nigeria to be without a valid NIN.

According to data from the NCC, as of March 2024, there were 219 million active mobile lines across networks like MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9-mobile, meaning 66 million lines are at risk of being disconnected.

Previously, the NCC stressed the importance of the NIN-SIM linkage for improving digital security and reducing fraud and cybercrime. However, the current issues with the NIMC portal are causing undue stress for telecom operators and subscribers alike.

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