Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Aminu Maida gave the directive during the NCC’s Special Day at the 45th Kaduna International Trade Fair on Wednesday (today).

The EVC reaffirmed the importance of linking NIN to SIM cards for critical national security.

Represented by the Director of Public Affairs at the NCC, Reuben Mouka, Maida also confirmed that the deadline of February 28th remains effective for telecom operators to disconnect subscribers who have not linked their NIN to their SIM cards.

The EVC declared that the February 28th deadline given to telecom operators to bar subscribers who failed to link their NIN to SIM, stands.

He said: “To this end, the National Communication Commission has directed all telecommunication operators to bar phone lines of subscribers whose lines are not linked to their NINs on or before February 28, 2024.

“As a regulator of the telecommunications sector in the country, the Commission carries out its functions to ensure service availability, affordability, and sustainability for all categories of consumers, who are leveraging ICT/Telecoms to drive personal and business activities.

“Conversely, as we promote economic growth through the development of local content, we must also address the challenges faced by consumers and NCC is committed to protecting their rights while ensuring their satisfaction.”

Maida urged telecom operators to prioritize customer satisfaction and uphold the highest standards of service delivery, noting that the commission has implemented measures to safeguard the interests of consumers and businesses alike.

According to Maida# the  NCCs  on May 17, 2023, that all licensed Mobile Network Operators commence implementation of approved Harmonised Short Codes for providing services to Nigerian telecom consumers.

He added: “The new initiative is enabling consumers using the over 224 million active mobile telephone lines in Nigeria to use the same codes to access services across all networks.”