The Federal Government has through the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), set a new deadline for subscribers to ensure they link their Subscribers Identity Modules (SIM) with the their National Identity Numbers (NIN)
The government also raised alarm over the acquisition of multiple SIM Numbers cards by individuals, saying some individuals have in their possession more than 100,000 SIM cards.
The government directed all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to ensure that all subscribers linked their SIM with NIN latest 14 September 2024. It added that from 15th of September, the MNOs should disconnect any SIM not linked with the NIN.
According to a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs of the NCC, Reuben Muoka, the Commission said through collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) it has been able to establish the security implications of individuals acquiring multiple SIM cards through unauthorised sources in the country.
The Commission emphasized the imperative of cleaning up the system within the shortest possible time, and urged MNOs to adhere strictly to the directive of the government.
The NCC admitted that significant progress has been recorded by the Government’s 2020 policy to link all Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) to National Identity Numbers (NINs).
It noted that till date over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to NIN, reflecting an impressive compliance rate of 96 per cent, a substantial increase from 69.7 per cent in January 2024.
