NCC Intensifies Crackdown On Pre-Registered SIM Cards

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced a renewed effort to address the sale and use of pre-registered SIM cards as part of reform initiatives aimed at enhancing compliance, licensing, and internet governance within the country’s telecommunications sector.

During a Public Inquiry held in Abuja regarding three subsidiary legislations—the Licensing Regulations 2019, Enforcement Process Regulations 2019, and Internet Code of Practice 2019—the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, emphasized the importance of this review in tackling emerging challenges in the rapidly evolving communications landscape.

Represented by Rimini Makama, the Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Maida explained that the updated Enforcement Process Regulations will establish a transparent and accountable framework for compliance monitoring, investigation, and enforcement actions. He noted that this revised framework aims to address persistent regulatory violations, particularly the sale of pre-registered SIM cards and practices like call masking and refilling, which pose threats to both national security and the revenue of telecommunications operators.

The EVC underscored that these measures will also help restore public confidence in the Commission’s regulatory role. Additionally, Maida stated that the Licensing Regulations, another focal point of the review, are being refined to incorporate new technological advancements and to streamline business processes. The revisions will introduce provisions for general authorizations, license renewals, corporate restructuring, and sanctions to promote innovation and improve the ease of doing business.

Chizua Whyte, the Head of Legal and Regulatory Services at the NCC, represented by Lawrence Abang, the Head of Dispute and Litigation, remarked that the review followed a six-month consultation process and reiterated the Commission’s commitment to inclusive and transparent regulation.