UPDATE: FG lists 3 conditions for SIM card replacement
- As NCC, NIMC, others collaborate on seamless process
The Federal government has stated three conditions for the replacement of subscriber’s identification module (SIM) cards in Nigeria.
According to a statement co-signed by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), conditions for SIM replacement are, that the subscriber presents a National Identity Number (NIN), that an effective verification of the NIN is carried out by NIMC; and that the relevant Guidelines and Regulations of NCC concerning SIM Replacement are fully adhered to.
This is based on the recommendations of a Technical Committee set up by the Ministerial Task Force under the Chairmanship of the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy.
Isa Pantami, the communications minister, approved a SIM Replacement Policy for subscribers whose SIMs have been lost, stolen, misplaced or damaged subject to the three conditions.
According to the statement, federal government’s drive to ensure all subscriber registrations are linked with National Identification Numbers (NINs) is moving forward.
All concerned stakeholders in the industry are working together to ensure the process is carried out as seamlessly as possible.
The Technical Committee made up of representatives of th NCC; NIMC; the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON); and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs).
The Committee is charged with the operationalization of the process to ensure an expedited linkage of all SIM Registration Records with NIN.
“This policy is part of the Federal Government’s efforts to reduce the burden on subscribers and simplify the exercise
“It is aimed at enabling telecommunications service users who need to replace their damaged, stolen or misplaced SIMs to re-establish access to telecom services,” the statement read.
Earlier, Business Metrics reported that ALTON said after thorough deliberations among stakeholders, Nigerians desiring to replace their SIM cards would have their wish granted provided they meet the stated condition.
