The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has instructed all mobile network operators to temporarily reactivate phone lines that were disconnected over the weekend due to incomplete National Identification Number (NIN) verification. This decision comes in response to the disruption caused by the mass disconnections and aims to give consumers more time to complete the NIN-SIM linkage process.
In a statement released on Monday, the NCC emphasized its commitment to consumer welfare, stating, “The consumer is our priority, therefore, considering the challenges the blockages have caused, the Commission has directed all operators to reactivate all lines that were disconnected over the weekend.”
The commission clarified that this reactivation is a temporary measure, explaining, “Reactivated consumers are to note that this is for a limited period to allow them to properly link their NIN to their SIM.”
The NIN-SIM linkage policy, initiated in December 2020, requires all mobile phone users in Nigeria to link their SIM cards with their National Identification Numbers. This initiative is part of the federal government’s efforts to enhance national security and maintain an accurate national SIM ownership database.
Despite multiple deadline extensions, with the most recent being July 31, 2024, many subscribers have yet to complete the verification process. The NCC had previously set April 15, 2024, as the deadline for full network barring of subscribers with four or fewer unverified SIMs.
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Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, urged affected subscribers to take advantage of this temporary reprieve. “We understand the inconvenience this process has caused, but it’s crucial for national security. We encourage all affected users to complete their NIN-SIM linkage as soon as possible to avoid future service interruptions,” he stated.
The NCC reiterated the importance of the NIN-SIM linkage in the broader context of Nigeria’s digital economy.
“This policy not only verifies and protects users’ identities but also provides critical infrastructure that ensures access to the benefits of a robust digital economy for all citizens,” the statement read.
The NCC has not specified how long this grace period will last, but it has strongly urged all affected subscribers to complete their NIN-SIM linkage as soon as possible to avoid future service disruptions.
