Gwamcee News
The July 31 deadline for NIN-SIM linkage by Communications Commission’s (NCC), has prompted telcos to take action, with unregistered mobile lines being barred from service, causing inconvenience to affected subscribers.
Although the deadline was extended from April 15, 2024, to July 31, numerous subscribers still face issues with their NIN-SIM linkage, prompting MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile to disconnect millions of unlinked lines.
The current phase requires operators to verify all submitted NINs to ensure the owners’ details match those in the SIM registration database.
While the total number of affected lines across networks is not yet disclosed, Airtel’s quarterly results released on Friday revealed that the NINs of 4.9 million of its customers were yet to be verified.
An official from one of the mobile network operators, speaking anonymously to Nairametrics, explained that many subscribers had ignored messages from the telcos about the need to correct irregularities in their NIN and SIM data.
He stated, “We all received a directive from the NCC to bar all lines whose owners’ NIN has not been verified. As you are aware, the deadline is July 31, which is why some lines whose linked NINs have not been verified are being barred.”
He added, “All the affected subscribers on our network have received several messages informing them of the need to update their records.
“In most cases, you find out that the name on the NIN is not the same as the name used to register the SIM or there’s a photo mismatch or disparity in date of birth.
“Even though the subscriber had linked his or her line with NIN before, this requires the subscriber to update his or her records to perfect the linkage.”
The official noted that owners of barred lines can still reactivate their lines by visiting their service provider to update their records.
