The Nigerian Communications Commission said the directive to mobile network operators to suspend sale and activation of new Subscriber Identification Module Cards was to allow for audit exercise to be concluded.
The commission gave the explanation in a statement on Wednesday by its Director of Public Affairs, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde.
According to NCC, the directive became necessary because of many pre-registered SIMs being sold to the public..
“In line with the federal government’s desire to consolidate the achievement of the SIM card registration exercise, the honourable minister of Communications and Digital Economy has directed the commission to embark on an audit of the Subscriber Registration Database.
“The objective of the audit exercise is to ensure compliance to set quality standards and requirements by mobile network operators,” NCC explained.
The commission, however, stated that exemption might be granted following approval from the government through the commission.
“MNOs are to please note that non-compliance with this directive will be met with strict sanctions, including the possibility of withdrawal of operating license,” NCC added.
