The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a Device Management System (NCC-DMS), a central platform designed to regulate and monitor mobile devices accessing communication networks across the country.

According to its recently released ‘Type Approval Business Rule 2024,’ all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Nigeria are required to connect to this system, which aims to enforce stricter control over mobile devices, enhance national security, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

This initiative, according to the Commission,  will significantly improve the security and integrity of Nigeria’s communication networks, protecting consumers and promoting a safer mobile ecosystem.

“NCC-DMS shall acquire the International Mobile Equipment Identity of all devices latching to the communication network and synchronize with international databases of IMEI repositories.

“NCC-DMS shall maintain a registry of all communication devices available in the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the NCC explained.

The NCC also introduced a device registration fee for the NCC-DMS, separate from existing type approval fees. This fee will be mandatory for all registered devices, it added.

The commission’s objective, first announced in 2021, is to enhance transparency, accountability, and national security in the telecommunications sector while ensuring the safe and efficient utilization of Nigeria’s communication infrastructure.

“To curtail the counterfeit mobile phone market, discourage mobile phone theft, enhance national security, protect consumer interest, increase revenue generation for the government, and reduce the rate of kidnapping.

“To mitigate the use of stolen phones for crime, and facilitate blocking or tracing of stolen mobile phones and other smart devices, one of the means to achieve this is through the deployment of Device Management System,” the NCC further added.