The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to immediately suspend the sale, registration and activation of new SIM Cards until the audit exercise ordered by the Federal Government is concluded.
The NCC’s directive is in response to the order by the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Isa Ali Pantami that the Commission embarks on another audit of the Subscriber Registration Database again.
Our Correspondent understands that the latest development was in line with the Federal Government desire to consolidate the achievement of the SIM Card registration exercise of September 2019.
The NCC said on Wednesday in a statement signed by its Director, Public Affairs, Dr Ikechukwu Adinde that the objective of the audit exercise is to verify and ensure compliance by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) with the set quality standards and requirements of SIM Card Registration as issued by the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy and the Commission.
The Commission stated that however, where it is absolutely necessary, an exemption may be granted in writing by the Commission following approval from the Federal Government.
“MNOs are to please note that non-compliance with this directive will be met with strict sanctions, including the possibility of withdrawal of operating license.
“As the Minister has earlier directed in January 2020, all citizens are urged to immediately secure Digital Identification from the National Identity Management Commission and submit it to the Network Operators,” the statement read in part.