SIM Disconnection Intensifies As Telcos Enter Final NIN Phase

SIM Disconnection Intensifies As Telcos Enter Final NIN Phase

Nigerian telecom companies have begun the final stage of disconnecting SIM cards not linked to National Identification Numbers (NINs). Senior officials from the telecom sector confirmed this development to The PUNCH on Sunday……… CONTINUE READING

Originally set for April 15, 2024, the disconnection deadline was extended to July 31, 2024, by the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) due to subscriber challenges and extension requests. The Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) is expected to release a statement soon.

The NCC has mandated this move, and telecom operators are being urged to ensure that subscribers link their numbers with their NINs. Concerns have arisen as some users have reported their SIMs being barred despite compliance, prompting backlash on social media.

The Digital Communications Assistant to former President Muhammadu Buhari, Bashir Ahmad, noted numerous complaints about sudden disconnections, while other users questioned the reasons behind blocking linked numbers.

This directive is part of a broader initiative started in 2020 to curb security threats. The final phase targets those with multiple SIM cards under a single number. Previous phases began in February and March 2024, blocking approximately 40 million unlinked lines by the initial deadline.

Telecom operators blame delays in NIN verification by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) for the disconnections. ALTON Chairman Gbenga Adebayo expressed concerns about verification delays and urged the NCC to address the issue.

Airtel Africa has reported potential revenue losses due to unverified customers, and while other operators have not disclosed the impact, MTN has begun barring unverified users.

Efforts to contact NCC and NIMC officials for comments were unsuccessful. Meanwhile, telecom operators are conducting an audit to enhance transparency and address customer complaints about billing and service issues.