NCC orders immediate reactivation of all blocked lines

In a swift response to the widespread disruption caused by recent disconnections, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed telecommunications operators to immediately restore all phone lines blocked due to the non-linkage of National Identification Numbers (NIN) to SIM cards.


The directive, issued by Reuben Muoka, the NCC’s Director of Media and Public Affairs, emphasizes prioritizing consumer convenience amidst the challenges caused by the blockages. Over the weekend, numerous telecom subscribers were unable to access their phone lines after failing to verify their NINs with their SIM cards, leading to massive outrage on Monday. Subscribers stormed MTN offices across the country, demanding the reactivation of their blocked phone lines.


"The consumer is our priority; therefore, considering the challenges the blockages have caused, the Commission has directed all operators to reactivate all lines that were disconnected over the weekend, in view of the short time available for consumers to undertake the verification of their NINs with their SIMs," the regulator stated. The NCC clarified that this reactivation is for a limited period, urging all subscribers who have not yet verified their SIMs to do so promptly to maintain access to their services.

Initiated in December 2020, the mandatory linkage of NINs with SIMs aims to enhance national security and ensure an accurate SIM ownership database. Despite multiple extensions, including the latest to July 31, 2024, many phone lines remain unverified. The initial deadline for full network compliance was set for April 15, 2024, barring subscribers with four or fewer SIMs with unverified NIN details. This deadline was later extended to provide consumers with more time for proper verification.


The Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) emphasized that the disconnections were not connected to the August 1 protest but were part of an ongoing harmonization process to enhance the accuracy and integrity of the National SIM registration database. "Customers who had their lines blocked recently are those whom their service providers found a mismatch between their records on both databases. We advise such customers to contact their service providers through communicated channels for resolution of the issue," ALTON explained.


ALTON reiterated its commitment to supporting government efforts and safeguarding communication rights, data privacy, and security. The NCC and telecom operators encourage all subscribers to ensure their NINs are properly linked with their SIMs to avoid future service disruptions and to contribute to a more secure and accurate SIM registration system.


Subscribers are urged to promptly verify their NINs with their SIMs during this reactivation period to avoid further inconvenience and ensure continued access to their phone lines.