The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has extended the deadline for linking Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) with National Identity Numbers (NINs) to September 14, 2024.
The NCC’s directive, issued on Wednesday, 28 August, 2024 mandates all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to complete the verification and linkage process by the new deadline.
The commission reported that over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to NINs, reflecting a compliance rate of 96%, a significant increase from 69.7% in January 2024.
The NCC emphasized the importance of this initiative in enhancing the security of Nigeria’s digital economy by reducing fraud and cybercrime.
The agency, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), is also addressing cases where individuals possess an unusually high number of SIM cards.
Nigerians are urged to complete their NIN-SIM linkage promptly or use approved self-service portals.
