National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Funmi Ojo
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has stipulated September 14, 2024, as the final deadline for all Nigerians to link their Subscriber Identity Modules (SIMs) with their National Identity Numbers (NINs).
This decisive move by the NCC comes in light of significant progress made under the Federal Government’s 2020 policy, which mandates the linkage of all SIMs to NINs.
According to the Commission, over 153 million SIMs have already been successfully linked to NINs, achieving a commendable 96% compliance rate.
In its directive, the NCC has instructed all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to ensure that the verification and linkage of SIMs to NINs are fully completed by September 14, 2024.
The Commission issued a stern warning that starting from September 15, 2024, any SIM operating in Nigeria without a valid NIN will be deactivated.
Additionally, the NCC has reiterated that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offences, which could result in both imprisonment and fines for those involved.
The Commission urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any instances of such illegal activities to the appropriate authorities.
