The Nigerian Communications Commission （NCC） has ordered telecom operators to immediately reactivate lines that were disconnected due to NIN-SIM verification issues, providing a temporary grace period for consumers to complete the linkage.
Points
- Immediate Reactivation: NCC orders reactivation of disconnected lines.
- Temporary Grace Period: Limited time for consumers to link their NIN to SIMs.
- Protests and Consumer Backlash: Public outcry over sudden disconnections.
The Nigerian Communications Commission （NCC） has mandated telecom operators to immediately reactivate lines that were recently disconnected due to the NIN-SIM verification issues. This directive follows significant public backlash and the challenges consumers faced over the sudden disconnections.
Objectives of the NIN-SIM Linkage
The NIN-SIM linkage policy, initiated in December 2020, aims to enhance national security and ensure an accurate SIM ownership database. The policy requires telecommunication companies to bar unregistered SIM cards and those not linked to a National Identification Number （NIN）. Despite several deadline
extensions, many subscribers have yet to complete the linkage, resulting in widespread disconnections.
NCC’s Response to Consumer Challenges
Recognizing the challenges and disruptions caused by the disconnections, the NCC has directed operators to reactivate all affected lines immediately. The Commission emphasized that this reactivation is temporary, providing consumers with a limited period to properly link their NIN to their SIM cards. The NCC’s statement underscored the importance of the NIN-SIM linkage in enhancing national security and protecting users’ identities.
“The consumer is our priority, therefore, considering the challenges the blockages have caused, the Commission has directed all operators to reactivate all lines that were disconnected over the weekend because of the short time available for consumers to undertake the verification of their NINs with their SIMs,” the NCC stated.
Protests and Public Outcry
The sudden disconnection of lines has led to widespread protests across Nigeria. In Osogbo, a large group of protesters blocked the entrance to an MTN office, expressing their frustration and demanding immediate restoration of services. The protests reflect the anger and inconvenience experienced by many Nigerians who found their lines barred without prior warning.
Subscriber Experiences and Reactions
Numerous subscribers have taken to social media to share their experiences and frustrations. Many reported waking up to find their lines barred, unable to make or receive calls or access the internet. Despite having previously linked their NINs to their SIMs, some users still faced disconnections, leading to confusion and anger.
Official Statement and Future Actions
The NCC has reiterated that the grace period for reactivation is temporary and urged subscribers to ensure their NIN details are correctly verified and linked to their SIM cards. The Commission did not specify a new deadline for the completion of this process but highlighted the importance of compliance to avoid future disruptions.
Conclusion
The NCC’s directive to reactivate disconnected lines provides temporary relief for many Nigerian subscribers. However, the need for proper NIN-SIM linkage remains critical for national security and the integrity of the SIM ownership database. Subscribers are encouraged to use this grace period to complete the verification process and avoid future disconnections.
解説
- Temporary Reactivation: The NCC’s directive offers immediate relief but emphasizes the temporary nature of this grace period.
- Public Outcry: The protests and public backlash highlight the significant impact of the disconnections on consumers.
- Future Compliance: Subscribers must ensure proper NIN-SIM linkage to avoid further disruptions and support national security efforts.