Leading telecom company MTN Nigeria started a broad SIM card removal on July 29, 2024, due to incomplete or mismatched National Identification Numbers (NINs).
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has mandated a more significant regulatory effort, including this move, to guarantee that every operational SIM card is linked to a current NIN. Initially planned for July 31, 2024, the deadline for compliance was repeatedly extended from earlier dates in February and April 2024.
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Unravelling the Confusion: NIN-SIM Card Mismatched Data and Disconnections
The NCC’s directive, initially adopted in December 2020 in response to security concerns, including terrorism and banditry, links NINs to SIM cards. Many consumers needed help with mismatched NIN data and SIM registration information despite the longer dates. Although they entered their NINs, some users reportedly encountered line blocks, which would have caused great annoyance and uncertainty among consumers. Though they had already finished the required connection process, several consumers have complained about their SIMs being turned off suddenly
MTN’s actions have sparked demonstrations in Lagos, where some consumers have expressed annoyance by damaging corporate property. Since some users had already followed the NIN connecting criteria, the demonstrations gathered steam as individuals said the disconnections were unfair. Regarding the MTN communication on the state of NIN registrations and the conditions for disconnection, there are questions
Many clients who have experienced the disconnection complain about the lack of clarity regarding procedures. Many have asked for updates on their data, as several individuals reported that their NINs and the names on their SIM registrations differed. Although MTN has not given a thorough statement addressing these issues, industry insiders believe most disconnections are caused by differences in personal information rather than a total failure to submit NINs.
Read also: MTN SIM cards disconnected due to incomplete or mismatched NIN registration
NIN-SIM Linking: Challenges and Solutions for Subscribers
Just changing their registration information would help those impacted to have their blocked lines reinstated. Offering several choices, including online portals and customer service hotlines, telecom providers have made it easy for consumers to handle any problems they could have. Still, the present circumstances highlight the challenges subscribers have navigating the complex requirements of the NIN-SIM linking policy
Subscribers should double-check their NIN and SIM registration data as the deadline approaches. This will guarantee that their service stays constant and help prevent further disconnections.