NCC begins registration of SIM-enabled devices, targets illegal imports

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has started registering and verifying SIM-enabled devices in an effort to curb illegal imports of communications equipment. This new initiative aims to create a central registry of devices used within Nigeria and requires all SIM-enabled equipment imported into the country to be registered before being sold.

Unregistered devices will be unable to operate on Nigerian mobile networks. The NCC stated this in a press release from its Director of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha. The agency's initiative seeks to streamline the enforcement of Type Approval compliance for SIM-enabled devices, ensuring that imported equipment meets technical and regulatory standards.

This technology-enabled framework will enable the NCC to automatically determine whether SIM-enabled devices comply with its Type Approval requirements. The Device Management System (DMS) will provide the technological infrastructure for automated compliance monitoring and enhance regulatory oversight of Nigeria's communications device market.

The initiative is based on Section 132(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, which mandates licensed service providers, equipment manufacturers, and suppliers to obtain Type Approval from the NCC before selling or using communications equipment in the country. The first phase of the framework will focus on registering existing devices currently in stock and ensuring that new devices imported into Nigeria are registered and authenticated.