Telecommunications operators in Nigeria are poised to begin disconnecting mobile telephone lines that are not linked to National Identification Numbers (NINs), following the expiration of the September 14 deadline set by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
The NCC had previously stated that no SIM card would remain active without a verified NIN as of September 15.
In an August statement, the telecom regulator urged subscribers who had not yet completed their NIN-SIM linkage or faced verification mismatches to visit their service providers promptly to update their details.
As of March 2024, data from the NCC indicated that there were 219 million active mobile lines across networks like MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile, with 153 million already linked to NIN. This leaves around 66 million unlinked lines at risk of disconnection.
Earlier this year, millions of lines were temporarily barred due to unverified NINs, causing significant disruptions nationwide.
The NCC had previously reversed this decision, allowing more time for subscribers to comply. However, with the deadline now lapsed, disconnections are set to commence.
READ ALSO: BREAKING: NCC stops issuance of new licences in 3 Key categories
An NCC official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated that there would be no further extensions. “We will disconnect anyone who refuses to comply; the grace period is over,” the official said, dismissing the notion of additional extensions.
They clarified that the earlier extension was granted due to misconceptions surrounding the NCC’s intentions during a period of civil unrest.
While some Nigerians have opted not to link their SIM cards to their NIN for various reasons, the official emphasized the importance of completing the process. “There will be no further extensions,” they reiterated.
Subscribers have voiced frustration over difficulties encountered while attempting to upload their details on the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) portal. Adeolu Ogungbanjo, President of the National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers, described the situation as “terrible” after visiting several telecom centers, including MTN and Airtel.
Ogungbanjo called for the NCC to reconsider extending the deadline due to ongoing technical issues, suggesting a possible one-week extension to accommodate those still struggling to complete the NIN-SIM linkage process.
He acknowledged the NCC’s efforts in granting previous extensions but urged them to act swiftly to help subscribers meet the requirements.
Be the first to comment