Telecom companies in Nigeria have begun the final phase of disconnecting SIM cards not linked to National Identification Numbers (NIN). This latest move follows an initial delay and has sparked concerns and complaints from affected subscribers. Read more about the situation, the ongoing challenges, and the impact on telecom users.
Telcos Enter Final Phase of SIM Disconnections Over NIN Linkage
Telecommunication companies in Nigeria have embarked on the final phase of disconnecting Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) numbers that remain unlinked to National Identification Numbers (NIN). This decisive action marks a crucial step in the National Identification Number-SIM harmonisation exercise, aimed at enhancing security and regulatory compliance within the telecom sector.
Background and Timeline
Initially slated for April 15, 2024, the disconnection deadline was extended to July 31, 2024, by the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) to accommodate subscriber challenges and requests for more time. Despite this extension, reports indicate that some telecom operators have started disconnecting SIM cards before the new deadline, igniting a wave of dissatisfaction and confusion among users.
Industry Reaction and Concerns
Two senior telecom officials, who requested anonymity, confirmed the commencement of the final disconnection phase to The PUNCH. They highlighted that this issue is not limited to MTN but affects the entire industry, with the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) expected to release a formal statement soon.
One official emphasized that the directive came from the NCC, which has provided numerous channels to ease the linking process for subscribers. They stressed that the aim is to ensure compliance rather than to penalize users, noting, “Subscribers are our customers. We cannot start disconnecting people’s lines without due process.”
Public Outcry and Social Media Reactions
The premature disconnection of SIM cards has led to widespread frustration among users, many of whom have taken to social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to express their grievances. Users reported that their SIM cards were barred despite having completed the NIN linking process, prompting allegations of systemic issues or potential malpractices.
Digital Communications Assistant to former President Muhammadu Buhari, Bashir Ahmad, noted, “It seems MTN has blocked hundreds of numbers today. Many people around me have lost service. Has anyone else faced this issue?”
Other users, such as Kensola and Jude Bela, voiced their concerns about the disconnections. They questioned whether the actions were due to errors in the linking process or if there were ulterior motives behind the disruptions, especially given the timing and the potential for political implications.
Operational and Regulatory Challenges
The disconnection exercise, which began in February 2024, has been implemented in three phases. The first phase on February 28 saw approximately 40 million lines barred. Subsequent phases were executed on March 29 and are now approaching the final deadline of July 31.
Telecom operators have attributed some of the challenges to delays from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) in approving customer verification requests. Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of ALTON, expressed concerns that unresolved verification issues might lead to the blocking of active customers who have fulfilled the linking requirements but remain unverified.
Future Outlook and Ongoing Developments
The NCC had initially mandated a full network barring of unlinked SIMs by February 28, 2024, with a follow-up disconnection for unverified numbers by April 15, 2024. This deadline was later shifted to July 31, 2024, alongside guidelines limiting customers to a maximum of four active SIMs.
The ongoing verification process and its challenges have led to calls for further deadline extensions. ALTON is actively engaged in providing feedback to the NCC, seeking potential solutions to address the issues and prevent further disruptions.
Conclusion
As the final phase of the NIN-SIM linkage process unfolds, it is clear that both telecom operators and regulatory bodies must work together to resolve existing challenges and ensure a smooth transition. The integration of NIN with SIM registrations is crucial for enhancing security and regulatory oversight, but it must be balanced with efficient operational practices and effective communication with subscribers.
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