The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has revealed alarming cases where individual Nigerians have registered over 100,000 SIM cards under their names. This discovery was made in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) as part of the ongoing National Identification Number (NIN) and SIM card linkage exercise.
Security Concerns and Fraud Prevention
The NCC expressed concerns that individuals with such a high number of SIM cards could pose significant threats to national security. The Commission emphasized its commitment to collaborating with security agencies and other stakeholders to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, which are often used in criminal activities such as fraud and terrorism. “The integrity of our mobile communication system is vital for national security, and we will continue to work diligently to safeguard it,” the NCC stated.
Importance of NIN-SIM Linkage
Under the NIN-SIM linkage policy, individuals are permitted to register a maximum of four SIM cards per network operator, excluding SIMs used for Internet of Things (IoT) devices like wearables and trackers. The NCC highlighted the importance of linking all SIM cards to NINs, stating that this measure is crucial for enhancing trust and security within Nigeria’s digital economy. By ensuring that all mobile users are verified, the policy aims to reduce the risk of fraud and cybercrime, while also promoting greater participation in digital transactions such as e-commerce, digital banking, and mobile money services. This, in turn, is expected to drive financial inclusion and contribute to economic growth.
Crackdown on Pre-Registered SIMs
The NCC reminded the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIM cards are criminal offenses punishable by imprisonment and fines. The Commission urged Nigerians to report any such activities through its toll-free line or social media platforms. “We must all play a role in protecting our nation’s digital infrastructure,” the NCC added.
Upcoming Deadline for NIN-SIM Linkage
In related news, the NCC announced that the final deadline for telecom subscribers to link their SIM cards with their NIN is set for September 14, 2024. Any SIM cards not linked by this date will be blocked by network operators. The Commission’s firm stance follows an earlier directive in July, which saw millions of unlinked lines temporarily barred by telecom operators. However, the NCC later instructed the operators to unblock these lines, giving subscribers additional time to complete the NIN-SIM linkage process.
The NCC reiterated that it expects full compliance by September 15, 2024, as part of its efforts to ensure that every SIM operating in Nigeria is linked to a valid NIN. This initiative is seen as a critical step in bolstering the nation’s security framework and enhancing the overall integrity of its telecommunications sector.
