SIM-NIN: Subscribers Demand Deadline Extension

Telecommunications subscribers have voiced their opposition to the impending deadline set by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for the disconnection of telephone lines not linked to National Identification Numbers (NIN), calling for an extension beyond Friday, March 29, 2024.

The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) raised concerns about the challenges faced by telco agents in capturing necessary information for verification and uploading data onto the National Identity Management Commission’s server.

Adeolu Ogunbanjo, President of NATCOMS, urged the NCC to halt telephone line disconnections due to ongoing difficulties experienced by subscribers.

The NCC, however, has remained firm on the deadline for the next phase of disconnection, which was initially rolled out in stages, with the second phase scheduled for March 29, 2024. Reuben Mouka, Director of Public Publicity at the NCC, reiterated that subscribers failing to comply with the directive would face disconnection, as previously announced.

During the first deadline on February 28, 2024, approximately 40 million lines not linked to NINs were barred, prompting subscribers to seek an extension. The NATCOM president explained that subscribers had requested a one-month extension before the first deadline, but the NCC clarified that the process was designed to occur in phases.

Ogunbanjo highlighted issues with incomplete registrations due to telecom agents bypassing crucial information and technical challenges encountered during data uploads to NIMC’s server. He urged the NCC to address NIMC’s shortcomings and acknowledge the difficulties faced by subscribers in meeting the deadline.

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) refuted reports of technical glitches, affirming that its services and server have remained operational.

Kayode Adegoke, Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC, clarified the process for linking NINs to SIM cards and encouraged individuals to enroll at NIMC centers. Adegoke assured prompt availability of NINs upon enrollment and explained the timeline for corrections.

In a joint statement, NIMC and the NCC announced a strategic partnership to simplify the NIN-SIM linkage process, reaffirming their commitment to enhancing security measures and service delivery.

The SIM-NIN linkage initiative aims to improve data integrity and bolster security in the telecommunications sector, as mandated by the Nigerian government’s directive issued in December 2020.