Over 40 Million Telephone Lines Barred as Deadline for NIN-SIM Linkage Expires

Telecommunication operators in Nigeria have deactivated no fewer than 40 million telephone lines over the weekend following the expiration of the February 28, 2024 deadline set by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The directive mandated telecom consumers to link their Subscriber Identity Modules (SIMs) to their National Identity Numbers (NINs), resulting in a significant increase from the initial plan of deactivating 12 million lines.

In a notice issued in December 2023, the NCC had instructed telcos to bar SIMs not linked to NINs by the deadline, with the Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Mouka, ruling out any extension and warning of sanctions for non-compliance.

To assist consumers in linking their mobile numbers to NINs and avoid disconnection, PUNCH Online provides a step-by-step guide using the NIMC Personal Identity digital application:

1. Download the NIMC Personal Identity application from Google Store or Apple Store.
2. The application allows linking up to 28 mobile numbers to your NIN.
3. Input your 11-digit NIN on the NIMC Personal Identity page to proceed with the linkage.
4. If you do not know your NIN, retrieve it by dialing *346# or provide your details for a search within the app.
5. After confirming your number, proceed to input the OTP received via SMS or dial *364*2*NIN# if not received.
6. Input the OTP and proceed to your identity platform, displaying your UserID and NIN information.
7. Click on the icon to link your numbers and add the desired mobile numbers.
8. Another OTP will be sent to the numbers provided for linkage, and upon input, they will be successfully linked.

This process aims to ensure compliance with the NCC directive and maintain the integrity of the telecommunications network. Failure to link SIMs to NINs may result in continued deactivation, emphasizing the importance of timely action by consumers to avoid disruption of services.