Nigerians To Be Restricted From Having More Than Three SIM Cards

The Nigerian Communication Commission, NCC, has been told to review the registration of SIM cards and usage. This directive is coming from the Federal Government to stop Nigerians from having more than three SIM cards

So, telecommunication firms are expected to block SIM cards that are not registered and functioning in line with this direction. This is to checkmate the increased kidnappings and killings and the general security

Therefore, the NCC has also been directed to use the National Identity Number (NIN) as a prerequisite for registering new SIM cards while foreign nationals must present their passport and visas. SIM cards that are already registered must be updated with NIN before 1st December 2020.

Also, reacting to the directive, telecom operators said the directive may not curb the security issue in the country. Olusola Teniola, the President of the Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) said criminals will now get several NIN to get their SIM cards registered to continue their activities.

However, he advised the use of the digital address system and the post-code system as tested measures that have worked in other climes including the UK and Ghana. He advised authorities to take the issue of the digital address system seriously.