The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced September 14, 2024, as the final deadline for the mandatory linkage of Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) to National Identity Numbers (NINs). This announcement comes as part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts, initiated in 2020, to ensure all SIMs are linked to a NIN for enhanced security and trust in Nigeria’s digital economy.
According to the NCC, significant progress has been made, with over 153 million SIMs successfully linked to NINs, marking an impressive 96% compliance rate—up from 69.7% in January 2024. However, the NCC continues to seek the cooperation of all Nigerians to achieve full compliance by the deadline.
The NIN-SIM linkage policy is critical for verifying mobile users, reducing fraud and cybercrime, and promoting financial inclusion and economic growth through digital transactions. The NCC, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), has identified alarming instances of individuals possessing an excessive number of SIMs—some exceeding 100,000. The Commission is also committed to cracking down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs in cooperation with security agencies.
All Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) have been directed to complete the verification and linkage process by September 14, 2024. Effective September 15, 2024, no SIM operating in Nigeria will be permitted without a valid NIN.
The NCC urges those who have not yet completed their NIN-SIM linkage, or who have faced verification issues, to promptly visit their service providers or use approved self-service portals before the deadline. The Commission also reminds the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offences, urging citizens to report any such activities via the toll-free line (622) or through the NCC’s social media platforms.
Further updates will be provided as the deadline approaches.
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