By Stephen Simon
The Nigerian Communications Commission has registered approximately 231 million telecommunications devices as it begins implementing a verification framework aimed at preventing counterfeit, cloned and unauthorised phones from accessing the country’s mobile networks.
The commission disclosed the development during a media briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, explaining that the initiative forms part of efforts to strengthen consumer protection and improve the integrity of Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.
According to the NCC’s Director of Technical Standards and Network Integrity, Edoyemi Ogoh, devices already operating on Nigerian networks have been registered automatically, meaning existing subscribers do not need to take additional steps to register their phones.
He explained that the new framework would focus on ensuring that newly introduced devices meet the commission’s applicable verification and type-approval requirements before gaining access to telecommunications networks.
The commission also clarified that the policy would not result in the retrospective disconnection of devices already operating on the networks before the system became operational.
The initiative is intended to prevent additional non-compliant devices from entering the telecommunications market while helping consumers identify products that do not meet regulatory standards.
Ogoh said the system was not designed as a surveillance tool and would not provide access to personal information stored on subscribers’ devices, including messages, photographs, contacts and financial records.
The NCC advised consumers to check the regulatory status of their phones and other SIM-enabled devices through its designated verification channels.
Subscribers can retrieve their devices’ International Mobile Equipment Identity numbers by dialling *#06# and use the commission’s prescribed channels to check compliance.
The development comes amid continuing concerns about counterfeit electronic products, telecommunications quality and consumer protection. The commission said the framework would support a more accountable device market and help protect subscribers against unapproved products.
