The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, has commenced the rollout of a technology-driven framework that will enable it to identify and block unapproved SIM-enabled communications devices from operating on Nigerian networks.
The initiative, being implemented through the Commission’s Device Management System, DMS, is aimed at tightening compliance with Type Approval requirements and preventing non-compliant and illegally imported devices from gaining widespread use in the country.
A statement by the Director, Public Affairs Department, NCC, Nnenna Ukoha, said the system would enable the Commission to electronically determine Type Approval compliance for SIM-enabled devices and strengthen oversight of the communications device ecosystem.
Under Section 132(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, licensed service and facilities providers, equipment manufacturers and suppliers are required to obtain Type Approval from the NCC before communications equipment can be sold or used in Nigeria.
The Commission said the DMS would improve compliance with applicable technical and regulatory standards, enhance network performance, facilitate the identification of non-compliant devices and strengthen consumer confidence in communications equipment sold and used in Nigeria.
It said the first phase of the automated Type Approval compliance framework had commenced, with the Commission working with key stakeholders, including the Nigeria Customs Service, Original Equipment Manufacturers, importers and relevant market associations.
The phase focuses on onboarding devices already held in stock and ensuring that devices imported into the country in future are appropriately registered and authenticated.
According to the NCC, the process will provide a more effective mechanism for identifying non-compliant and illegally imported devices before they enter widespread use.
Director, Technical Standards and Network Integrity, NCC, Engr.
Edoyemi Ogoh, said the Type Approval Business Rules issued in August 2024 provided the regulatory framework for establishing a Central Equipment Identity Register, CEIR, for SIM-enabled communications devices.
He said the Commission had undertaken extensive stakeholder engagements and market studies following the issuance of the rules, leading to the design and deployment of the system.
Ogoh said the central registry of International Mobile Equipment Identity, IMEI, numbers would strengthen enforcement of Type Approval requirements and ensure that devices imported, sold and used in Nigeria meet applicable standards.
“With the deployment of this system, all SIM-enabled communications devices brought into the country must be registered before they are sold. Devices that are not duly registered will not be permitted to operate on Nigerian networks,” he said.
He added that the system would also help identify illegally imported and non-compliant devices, while stolen devices could be blocked across Nigerian mobile networks.
Ogoh assured users that the platform would only support device identification and Type Approval compliance and would not provide the Commission access to device content or personal communications.
