The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed telecom operators to reactivate lines affected by issues related to the National Identification Numbers (NINs) and Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) verification. This directive came after a significant number of subscribers, including 20 million MTN Nigeria users, were disconnected.
The NCC, emphasizing the importance of consumers, instructed operators to reactivate the disconnected lines temporarily, allowing subscribers more time to verify their NINs with their SIMs.
Thousands of Nigerians expressed frustration and anger at the sudden disconnection. Many flocked to telecom service providers’ offices to resolve the issue.
MTN offices nationwide were overwhelmed with subscribers seeking to verify their NIN-SIM linkage. The Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) debunked rumors that the disconnections were targeted at specific individuals.
NIN-SIM Linkage Background:
Initiative’s Objectives: The Federal Government’s compulsory linkage of NIN with SIM, initiated in December 2020, aims to enhance national security and maintain an accurate national SIM ownership database.
– Deadline Extensions: Despite several extensions, with the latest deadline being July 31, 2024, many lines remain unverified.
ALTON’s Assurance:
– Customer Support: ALTON Chairman, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, assured that measures are in place for customers to easily unblock their lines. He emphasized the industry’s commitment to supporting the government and protecting citizens’ communication rights.
The NCC has urged the public to verify their SIMs promptly to avoid future disruptions.
