Nigeria's NCC tightens device verification and service quality standards

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced several regulatory measures aimed at enhancing security and service quality within the country's digital economy. Executive Vice Chairman Dr. Aminu Maida announced plans to expand the Telecommunications Identity Risk Management System (TIRMS) to other sectors. This expansion aims to reduce fraud by helping organizations identify recycled phone numbers and compromised digital identities used for financial services, pensions, and online shopping.

Additionally, the NCC has issued a warning to manufacturers, importers, and dealers of SIM-enabled devices. Non-compliant devices that fail to meet type approval and International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) verification requirements may eventually be restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile networks. The commission is utilizing technology-enabled verification to enforce these standards, in coordination with the Nigeria Customs Service.

Regarding service quality, the NCC has threatened sanctions against telecommunications operators that fail to meet established standards. Dr. Maida emphasized that the commission will hold providers accountable for issues such as unreliable connectivity and transparent billing to ensure better consumer protection.