The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has set 14th September as the ‘final deadline’ for linking the National Identification Number (NIN) with the Subscriber Identification Module (SIM).

Reuben Muoka, the NCC spokesperson, announced this on Wednesday, directing all mobile network operators (MNOs) to complete the verification and linkage of SIMs to NINs by the 14th September 2024 deadline.

Muoka revealed that over 153 million SIMs have already been successfully linked to their NINs, marking an impressive compliance rate of 96%, a significant increase from 69.7% in January 2024.

“To ensure full compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy, the NCC has mandated all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to finalise the mandatory verification and linkage of SIMs to NINs by 14th September 2024,” the statement read. “From 15th September 2024, the Commission expects that no SIM operating in Nigeria will be without a valid NIN.”

According to the commission, collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has uncovered alarming cases.

The NCC reiterated its commitment to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, stressing that this effort is to safeguard national security and maintain the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.

The commission urged all members of the public who have not yet completed their NIN-SIM linkage, or who have faced verification mismatches, to visit their service providers promptly to update their details before the deadline. The NCC also reminded the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offences, punishable by imprisonment and fines.

“We encourage citizens to report any such activities to the Commission via our toll-free line (622) or through our social media platforms,” the statement added.