The Nigerian Communications Commission has restated its directive for telecom operators to block phone subscribers who have not linked their National Identification Numbers by February 28, 2024.
During the 45th Kaduna International Trade Fair, the Executive Vice Chairman of the National Communication Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, emphasized the importance of linking NIN to SIM cards for national security. He stated that telecom consumers must comply with this requirement.
Mr. Reuben Mouka, NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, represented Maida at the event and confirmed that the deadline of February 28th for operators to block subscribers without linked NINs remains in effect.
“To this end, the National Communication Commission has directed all telecommunication operators to bar phone lines of subscribers whose lines are not linked to their NINs on or before February 28, 2024,” he added.
The executive vice chairman stated that the theme was fitting because it aligns with the commission’s goals of promoting local content development in the telecom industry.
Maida also emphasized the NCC’s dedication to safeguarding consumers’ rights, ensuring their satisfaction, and providing affordable and fair services to support the nation’s economic growth.
“As a regulator of the telecommunications sector in the country, the Commission carries out its functions to ensure service availability, affordability, and sustainability for all categories of consumers, who are leveraging on ICT/Telecoms to drive personal and business activities,” he said.
He mentioned that the TELCARE Desk at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja was established to provide a platform for customers to inquire about issues, receive assistance, and resolve complaints related to telecommunications.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration in creating a more dynamic telecommunications industry that can significantly contribute to economic recovery and growth.
As of 2023, the telecoms industry’s contribution to the nation’s GDP was reported at 13.5% (Source: Nigerian Gross Domestic Product Report November 2023 – A publication of the National Bureau of Statistics).
“Conversely, as we promote economic growth through the development of local content, we must also address the challenges faced by consumers and NCC is committed to protecting their rights while ensuring their satisfaction.
The head of the NCC encouraged telecom companies to focus on customer satisfaction and maintain high service standards. He mentioned that the commission has put in place measures to protect the interests of both consumers and businesses.
One of these measures is the NCC’s directive on May 17, 2023, requiring all licensed Mobile Network Operators to start using approved Harmonised Short Codes to offer services to Nigerian telecom consumers.
“The new initiative is enabling consumers using the over 224 million active mobile telephone lines in Nigeria to use the same codes to access services across all networks,” he added.
Additionally, the NCC boss revealed that as of 2023, the telecom industry’s contribution to the nation’s GDP was 13.5%, as reported in the Nigerian Gross Domestic Product Report from November 2023 by the National Bureau of Statistics.
