Reps urge NCC to review phone verification rules over price

The House of Representatives has urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to review its mobile phone device verification requirements, citing concerns that the policy could lead to higher phone prices and affect legitimate used devices on the market. Lawmakers argue that the new verification rules, which began on October 7, 2026, impose financial burdens on importers and retailers, potentially increasing operating costs and passing these costs onto consumers through higher phone prices.

The House fears that the verification system may wrongly reject or block genuine, used devices, particularly in the second-hand phone market where many Nigerians purchase affordable devices for communication, education, and business purposes. The resolution, initiated by lawmaker Sani Wakili, calls for a review of the implementation of the Device Management System and Central Equipment Identity Register, which identify and verify mobile phones using International Mobile Equipment Identity numbers.

The House emphasizes that while the NCC is addressing counterfeit, cloned, and stolen devices, enforcement efforts must not unfairly penalize legitimate businesses or deny Nigerians access to affordable communication devices. The lawmakers directed their committees to engage the NCC and other stakeholders, with a deadline of four weeks for a report before further legislative action.