Following the telecoms regulator's deadline, Nigeria's mobile operators are blocking subscriber identity module (SIM) cards that are not linked to National Identification Numbers (NIN). 

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) announced September 14 as the deadline for the registration of the 219 million active mobile customers across the country's four telcos, which are Airtel, Glo, 9mobile, and MTN.

To date, 153 million customers have been linked to their national ID numbers. 

In a statement, NCC explained the disconnections, saying: “The complete linkage of all SIM cards to NINs is essential for enhancing the trust and security of our digital economy.

“By verifying all mobile users, this policy strengthens confidence in digital transactions, reduces the risk of fraud and cybercrime, and supports greater participation in e-commerce, digital banking, and mobile money services.”

The telecoms regulator stated that, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser and the National Identity Management Commission, the NCC successfully uncovered alarming cases in which individuals possessed an unusually large number of SIM cards—some exceeding 100,000.

"The Commission also remains committed to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, thereby safeguarding national security and ensuring the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria," NCC said.

The regulator recommended those who have not yet completed their NIN-SIM linkage or who have encountered challenges owing to verification mismatches to visit the local service provider's office as soon as possible to update their information.