The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has confirmed that telecommunications operators will commence disconnecting mobile telephone lines not linked to National Identification Numbers (NIN) starting today, September 15.
The NCC had set a deadline of September 14 for subscribers to link their SIM cards to their NIN, and with the expiration of this deadline, approximately 66 million unlinked lines are at risk of disconnection.
An NCC official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, dismissed any possibility of an extension, stating, “We will disconnect anyone who refuses to comply; the grace period is over.” The official emphasized that the commission has no intention of deliberately disconnecting subscribers but stressed that the deadline will be enforced.
As of March 2024, data from the NCC showed 219 million active lines across mobile networks, with 153 million already linked to NIN. However, challenges with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) portal have hindered the timely completion of the NIN-SIM linkage process.
Adeolu Ogungbanjo, President of the National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers, described the situation as “terrible” and pleaded for a one-week extension due to technical issues.
Telecom operators, including MTN and Airtel, have already barred millions of lines for non-compliance. MTN reported blocking 8.6 million lines, while Airtel stated that 8.7 million of its customers had completed verification.
The compulsory linkage of NIN with SIM cards began in December 2020, and the NCC has repeatedly extended the deadline to accommodate subscribers. However, with the expiration of the latest deadline, subscribers who have not complied risk losing their mobile services.
Subscribers are advised to visit their service providers promptly to update their details and avoid disconnection.
