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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has restated its directive to telecom operators, emphasizing the necessity for telephone subscribers to link their National Identification Numbers (NIN) to their accounts by February 28, 2024. 

The announcement was made by the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, during the NCC's Special Day at the 45th Kaduna International Trade Fair on Wednesday.

Represented by Mr. Reuben Mouka, the NCC's Director of Public Affairs, Dr. Maida emphasized the critical importance of the linkage as a measure to enhance national security. He reiterated that the February 28th deadline for telecom operators to bar subscribers failing to link their NIN to their SIM cards remains unchanged.

“To this end, the National Communication Commission has directed all telecommunication operators to bar phone lines of subscribers whose lines are not linked to their NINs on or before February 28, 2024,” he added.

Dr. Maida highlighted the alignment of this directive with the principles and objectives of the NCC in promoting local content development within the telecom industry. He emphasized the commitment of the NCC to safeguarding consumers' rights, ensuring satisfaction, and creating a universally acceptable environment for "affordable and equitable service" to support the nation's economic growth.

 

The Executive Vice Chairman pointed out that the NCC functions as a regulator in the telecommunications sector, working towards service availability, affordability, and sustainability for all categories of consumers leveraging ICT/Telecoms for personal and business activities.

In addressing consumer issues, Dr. Maida mentioned the Telecom Consumer Assistance, Resolution, and Enquiries (TELCARE) Desk at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, offering an additional platform for customer inquiries and complaint resolutions.

The NCC boss urged telecom firms to prioritize customer satisfaction and uphold high service delivery standards. He highlighted the NCC's implementation of measures, including the directive issued on May 17, 2023, requiring licensed Mobile Network Operators to commence the implementation of approved Harmonised Short Codes for services, facilitating uniform access across all networks for consumers using the over 224 million active mobile telephone lines in Nigeria.

Dr. Maida disclosed that as of 2023, the telecoms industry’s contribution to the nation’s GDP stood at 13.5%, according to the Nigerian Gross Domestic Product Report of November 2023, published by the National Bureau of Statistics. This reflects the industry's significant role in economic recovery and growth.

Dr. Maida emphasized the NCC's commitment to addressing consumer challenges while promoting economic growth through the development of local content within the telecommunications sector.