In view of the recent successful implementation of the SIM-NIN linkage policy and deactivation of defaulting lines nationwide by the telecoms regulator, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the consistency of the Commission in controlling the sector for the interest of the nation has been established.
The strategic SIM-NIN linkage policy, implemented to enhance security and identify criminals, has led to the deactivation of numerous SIM cards that failed to meet the verification requirements. As part of the policy, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) also imposed a ban on SIM card registration for individuals under the age of 18.
Business Hilights can authoritatively report that even though some telecommunication companies reported a loss of approximately 66 million SIM cards following the enforcement of the SIM-NIN linkage policy, investigations nationwide have shown that cases of kidnapping and demanding for ransoms are significantly dropping.
Prior to the September deadline, the NCC had issued several warnings and extensions to encourage subscribers to link their SIM cards to their National Identification Numbers (NINs). Despite these efforts, a significant number of SIM cards remained unverified, ultimately leading to their deactivation.
Observers say whereas the SIM-NIN linkage initiative, which began in 2020, disrupted both telecom operators and subscribers, it has contributed to improved security measures plus SIM Card sanity and has had a substantial positive impact on the nation’s telecommunications industry.
In all, the regulatory capacity of NCC can be said to have passed the test of consistency in policy implementation after all.
