Telecom operators have begun disconnecting about 66 million phone lines nationwide, in line with the federal government’s directive on linking National Identification Numbers (NIN) with Subscriber Identity Modules (SIM). This step follows numerous extensions and warnings aimed at encouraging compliance with the policy intended to bolster national security and streamline identification processes.
As of March 2024, out of the 219 million active lines on networks such as MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile, 153 million were connected to NIN, leaving approximately 66 million lines at risk of disconnection. In late July 2024, many lines were briefly blocked due to unverified NINs, causing widespread disruptions.
Financial reports for early 2024 reveal that MTN Nigeria and Airtel Africa had blocked 13.5 million lines for failing to adhere to the NIN-SIM linkage rule. MTN reported blocking 8.6 million lines, while Airtel blocked 8.7 million.
Telecom providers including MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile are advising affected customers to link their NINs to prevent permanent disconnection. Those with deactivated lines can reconnect by visiting service centers or NIMC offices to complete the process.
The National Communications Commission (NCC), in collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), mandated that all mobile users in Nigeria link their SIM cards to their unique NIN. Introduced in 2020, this policy aims to reduce insecurity, fraud, and criminal activities linked to unregistered or improperly registered phone lines.
Despite several deadline extensions since December 2023, the NCC announced in August that as of September 15, no SIM card should remain active without a verified NIN. According to an NCC official, non-compliant lines will be unable to make calls, send messages, or use mobile data services until the linkage process is completed.
The NCC emphasized that the NIN-SIM linkage is vital for national security, enabling the creation of a central database to track criminal activities, verify identities, and improve digital financial inclusion.
Despite the government’s insistence on the policy, criticism persists. Adeolu Ogungbanjo, president of the National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers, has described the NIN-SIM linkage process as problematic. Ogungbanjo has urged the NCC to consider extending the deadline due to recent technological issues, suggesting an additional week might be beneficial while acknowledging the NCC’s efforts following numerous extensions.
