Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr Aminu Maida has ordered all telecommunication operators to bar phone lines of subscribers whose lines are not linked to their NIN.
The deadline for the linkage lapsed on February 28, 2024
Maida who explained that one of the major objectives of linking subscribers’ NIN to SIM was to enhance national security, insisted that Telecom consumers must link their NINs to the SIMs.
He expressed the belief that an empowered consumer base was essential for driving demand and sustaining the growth of the local content value chain adding that the move was a sure way to promote economic growth and address the challenges faced by consumers.
Maida, who stated these at the NCC Special Day during the 45th Kaduna International Trade Fair organized by the Kaduna Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KADCCIMA), said the NCC as a regulator of the telecommunications sector in the country, will ensure a conducive environment for an efficient service delivery.
“We recognize the importance of deepening the local content value chain as a critical driver for economic sustainability and growth. The NCC remains dedicated to fostering an enabling environment for telecommunications industry, where local content and innovation can thrive as this is one of the most critical thrust of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.
“We cannot overemphasize the fact that robust local content value chain will not only create economic opportunities but also contribute to technological advancement, job creation, and skills development within the country.
“In line with our commitment to supporting local content, the NCC has implemented various initiatives to promote indigenous participation in the telecommunications sector. The Nigerian Office for Development of Indigenous Telecommunications Sector (NODITS), a critical unit in our Digital Economy Department and our Research and Development Department, encourages local manufacturing and assembly of telecommunications equipment, promotes local software development, and supports initiatives aimed at enhancing digital skills and entrepreneurship among Nigerian youth.
“The Commission has sponsored a number of Hackathons to encourage and promote Nigerian innovator expanding the frontiers of the Digital Economy. In 2023, three winners emerged in three critical thematic areas of innovations; Blockchain-enabled Data Protection Solutions for Enhancing Regulatory Compliance; Assistive Technology Solutions for the Elderly and People with Disabilities and Technology Solutions for Renewable Energy in Rural Areas,” he said.