Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-07 04:41:00
In a bid to address the issue of insecurity and illegal activities in the telecommunication industry, the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) has announced its collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and relevant security agencies. Speaking during an introductory meeting with the media in Abuja, Dr Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, emphasized the commission’s commitment to combating illegal Subscriber Identity Mode (SIM) and ensuring that SIMs are linked to National Identity Numbers (NIN) by the end of February.
Dr Maida warned that SIMs not linked to NIN will be deactivated by the end of February, as the commission seeks to address the challenge of pre-registered or illegally registered SIM cards. He acknowledged that while there was a policy in 2021 to link NIN with SIMs, there were loopholes that were exploited by people in the value chain. As a result, the commission has taken steps to enforce the linking of SIMs to NIN and deactivate those that are not compliant.
In addition to addressing the issue of illegal SIM registration, the NCC is also working towards ensuring a seamless and affordable telecommunications service for consumers. Dr Maida reiterated the commission’s dedication to protecting the interests of consumers, stating that their loyalty lies first with the Nigerian people. He emphasized the importance of putting a smile back on the faces of consumers and assured that the NCC will prioritize consumer satisfaction while also protecting the interests of licensed network providers.
The EVC also highlighted the commission’s consideration of deploying satellite broadband to provide coverage across the country and drive the attainment of the 70 per cent broadband penetration target by 2025. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure that more Nigerians have access to affordable and reliable internet connectivity.
In addressing the issue of network tariffs and irregularities on the part of licensed network providers, Dr Maida emphasized the importance of finding a balance between consumer satisfaction and the protection of the interests of licensees to attract investments. He assured that the NCC will work towards formalizing simplicity of tariffs by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) through the initiation of regulations.
Furthermore, the EVC revealed that MNOs have indicated their commitment to simplifying their tariffs in order for consumers to have a clear understanding of the services they are signing up for. This move is aimed at enhancing transparency and ensuring that consumers are able to make informed decisions when purchasing data or subscribing to telecommunication services.
The NCC’s collaboration with NIMC and other relevant agencies, as well as its commitment to consumer satisfaction and affordable telecommunications services, demonstrates the commission’s dedication to addressing the challenges and improving the telecommunications industry in Nigeria. Dr Maida’s reassurances and the commission’s initiatives reflect a proactive approach to ensuring a secure, seamless, and consumer-friendly telecommunications environment in the country.
