Frequently Asked Questions

Compliance Monitoring & Enforcement

  1. Has the government made any special arrangements for Nigerians living in the diaspora with regard to the NIN registration and subsequent deadline?

    In 2019, the National Identity Management Commission commenced the diaspora enrolment exercise at designated centres located in Nigeria’s High Commissions abroad. This is aimed at capturing Nigerians living outside the country into the National Identity Database.

  2. How does the Commission intend to rid the streets permanently of pre-registered SIM cards?

    The Commission carries out periodic enforcement and audit exercises to check the prevalence of pre-registered SIM cards. It also collaborates with the Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and security agencies to apprehend and prosecute offenders.

  3. In cases of fraud carried out during illegal SIM swap, who bears the liability? The network operator or the financial institution (Bank)?

    This issue is largely still in contention. Although, since it is a criminal offence, it is referred to the Police for investigation. The negligent party would be made to bear liability.

  4. Are children also required to link their MSISDNs to the NIN?

    Yes, although there are additional requirements for the registration of children which include the provision of the Parents/Guardian’s NIN slip along with supporting documents in proof of the relationship.

  5. In the event that customers are unable to link all their SIM Cards to the NIN and those SIM Cards get blocked, the Mobile Network Operators lose a sizable number of their customer base. Wouldn’t this lead to disastrous economic consequences?

    The Federal Government has further extended the deadline for Nigerians to link their National Identification Numbers (NIN) to their SIM cards till June 30, 2021.

  6. How do I file a complaint of a Consumer’s non-compliance to the Commission?

    Submit a detailed letter regarding the issue to the Commission, attentioned to the EVC.

  7. How do I file a complaint against an MNO for poor Quality of Service?

    Submit a complaint regarding the issue to the Commission, attentioned to the EVC and by social media handles i.e. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc.

  8. Where can I learn more about Enforcement activities?

    On the NCC website, ncc.gov.ng. Click on the Licensing & Regulation tab, then Regulatory Functions tab, then Enforcement Activities tab.

  9. Where can I get a list of type approved telecoms equipment?

    On the NCC website, ncc.gov.ng. Click on the Technology Regulation tab, then Technical Standards tab, then Type approval tab. All type approved equipment are listed there.

  10. Do Enforcement teams require warrants to enter private property?

    Yes. The Commission is legally obligated to get warrants from a High Court judge, in order to access private property.

  11. What is the most common Enforcement action that is carried out?

    Enforcement against fully activated SIM Cards.

  12. What are the issues that may lead to Enforcement action being carried out on the Consumer?

    Issues that leads to enforcement action on a Consumer are the use of fraudulently Registered SIM cards.