The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed telecommunications operators to immediately restore all phone lines that were blocked due to the non-linkage of National Identification Numbers (NIN) to SIM cards. This directive, announced by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, aims to address the widespread disruptions caused by the blockages and prioritize consumer convenience.
Over the weekend, many telecom subscribers found themselves unable to access their phone lines after failing to verify their NINs with their SIM cards. This led to the blocking of their numbers, in compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage regulations. The sudden loss of access sparked massive outrage on Monday, with subscribers flocking to MTN offices across the country, demanding the reactivation of their blocked lines.
In response, 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 commission emphasized that this reactivation is temporary, allowing consumers more time to link their NINs to their SIM cards properly.
The mandatory linkage of NINs with SIM cards began in December 2020. It aimed to enhance national security and ensure an accurate database of SIM ownership. Despite several deadline extensions, including the latest to July 31, 2024, many lines remain unverified. The NCC has reviewed the deadline multiple times since December 2023, initially setting April 15, 2024, as the deadline for the full network, with exceptions for subscribers with four or fewer SIMs. This deadline was then extended to July 31, 2024, to provide consumers more time for verification.
Despite these extensions, the NCC noted that many phone lines are yet to be linked with verified NINs. The commission urged all subscribers who have not yet verified their SIMs to do so promptly to maintain access to their services. The reactivation period is intended to give subscribers a final opportunity to comply with the regulations.
Meanwhile, the telecom operators, under the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), clarified that the disconnection was not related to the August 1 protest. They explained that the harmonization process had been underway for several months to enhance the accuracy and integrity of the National SIM registration database. ALTON stated, “Customers who had their lines blocked recently are those whom their service providers found a mismatch between their records on both databases. We advise such customers to contact their service providers through communicated channels for resolution of the issue.”
ALTON emphasized its commitment to supporting government efforts and safeguarding communication rights, data privacy, and security. The association reiterated that the goal of the NIN-SIM linkage initiative is to create a secure and accurate database that will benefit all Nigerians. The operators have been working diligently to ensure that all records are up-to-date and compliant with the regulations.
The reactivation directive from the NCC comes as a relief to millions of subscribers who faced disruptions in their daily activities due to the blocked lines. Many users rely on their phone lines for essential communication, business transactions, and access to various services. The temporary reactivation will allow them to continue using their services while completing the necessary verification processes.
