Subscriber group backs Telcos on mass disconnection of non-NIN linked SIMs

By Juliet Umeh

The Association of Telephone, Cable TV, and Internet Subscribers of Nigeria (ATCIS) has expressed support for telecommunications operators to disconnect subscribers who failed to link their SIMs to their National Identification Numbers (NINs) as the deadline expired on September 14, 2024.

ATCIS National President, Mr. Sina Bilesanmi, stated that subscribers must respect the laws of the land and comply with the NIN-SIM linkage policy. He commended the government for its repeated extensions and understanding but emphasized the need for full enforcement to achieve the policy’s objectives, including enhanced security and improved digital governance.

Bilesanmi urged those who have not complied to take immediate action and advised the government to consider a grace period for subscribers facing genuine difficulties, such as the elderly and those in remote areas.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reaffirmed that there will be no further extensions beyond the September 14 deadline. Subscribers who have not completed the NIN-SIM linkage or faced verification issues have been urged to visit their service providers promptly to avoid disconnection.

With over 66 million mobile lines still unlinked to NINs, the policy will now be fully enforced. The NCC emphasized that subscribers who are yet to comply should prepare for disconnection, as the government is committed to the successful implementation of the NIN-SIM linkage policy for national security and digital governance.

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