In a recent announcement, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has instructed telecommunications operators to restore all blocked phone lines that were deactivated due to non-linkage with National Identification Numbers (NINs) to SIM cards. The directive was made in response to the widespread disruption caused by the blockages and to prioritize consumer convenience.
Over the weekend, numerous telecom subscribers found themselves unable to access their phone lines after failing to verify their NINs with their SIM cards. This resulted in their numbers being blocked, as per the NIN-SIM linkage regulations. The sudden blockage led to an outcry from subscribers, who subsequently stormed MTN offices across the country, demanding the reactivation of their phone lines.
Addressing the issue, the NCC stated, “The consumer is our priority; therefore, considering the challenges the blockages have caused, the Commission has directed all operators to reactivate all lines that were disconnected over the weekend, in view of the short time available for consumers to undertake the verification of their NINs with their SIMs.”
The mandatory linkage of NINs with SIMs, which began in December 2020, aims to enhance national security and establish an accurate SIM ownership database. Despite several deadline extensions, including the latest extension to July 31, 2024, a significant number of lines still remain unverified.
Initially, the deadline for full network compliance was set for April 15, 2024, with the exception of subscribers with four or fewer SIMs that had unverified NIN details. However, this deadline was later extended to July 31, 2024, to provide consumers with more time to ensure the proper verification of their NIN details.
Despite these extensions, many phone lines have yet to be linked with verified NINs, causing frustration among subscribers. The NCC emphasized that the reactivation of blocked lines is only temporary and urged all subscribers who have not yet verified their SIMs to do so promptly to maintain access to their services.
Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) clarified that the disconnection was not related to the upcoming August 1 protest. According to the telecom operators, the harmonization process has been ongoing for several months and aims to enhance the accuracy and integrity of the National SIM registration database. They advised affected customers to contact their service providers for resolution of any issues.
The NCC and ALTON both reiterated their commitment to supporting government efforts, safeguarding communication rights, and ensuring data privacy and security.
In conclusion, the NCC’s directive to reactivate blocked phone lines aims to address the inconvenience faced by subscribers due to the non-linkage of NINs with SIM cards. Subscribers are urged to promptly verify their SIMs to maintain access to services, while telecom operators are working to harmonize and enhance the National SIM registration database for improved accuracy and integrity.
