NCC Completes Nationwide NIN-SIM Linkage, Says All Phone Numbers Now Verified

Ikeja, Lagos State- The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has successfully completed the nationwide linkage of all phone numbers to the National Identification Number (NIN), ensuring that every active phone number in the country is now tied to a verified NIN.

This marks the culmination of an extensive process that began in 2020 to enhance the security of mobile communications and curb identity fraud.

Speaking at the 2024 Annual Corporate Governance Conference in Lagos on Thursday, the Executive Vice-Chairman of the NCC, Aminu Maida, made the announcement, stating that “there is no phone number that we cannot associate with a verified NIN. Not just a number, but a number that has been verified.”

Maida acknowledged the difficulties many Nigerians faced during the registration and verification process, but emphasized that the completion of the NIN-SIM linkage would significantly strengthen the integrity of Nigeria’s telecommunications network and improve national security.

He emphasized the importance of the completed NIN-SIM linkage initiative, noting that the federal government’s policy is a key step in reducing crime and enhancing security across the country.

He stated, “We have successfully implemented the federal government’s 2020 policy of linking every phone number to a NIN.

“While it may have been challenging for Nigerians, we must recognize the benefits. Today, every phone number is linked to a verified NIN—not just any number, but one that has undergone proper verification.”