The Nigerian Communications Commission has directed network operators to block all Subscriber Identification Modules registered without valid National Identification Number with effect from December 30.
The order was contained in a release ‘Implementation of New SIM Registration Rules’ and signed by NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde on Tuesday.
It stated, “Operators to require all their subscribers to provide valid National Identification Number to update SIM registration records.
“The submission of NIN by subscribers to take place within two weeks (from today December 16, 2020 and end by 30 December, 2020). After the deadline, all SIMs without NINs are to be blocked from the networks.”
The decision is coming barely one week after the commission directed mobile network operators to suspend sale and activation of new SIM cards to allow for completion of audit exercise.
It added, “A Ministerial Task Force comprising the minister and all the chief executive officers (among others) as members is to monitor compliance by all networks.
“Violations of this directive will be met by stiff sanctions, including the possibility of withdrawal of operating licence.”
According to NCC, the decision was at the behest of the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Pantami, with key stakeholders in the industry.
