The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced the successful removal of all unregistered SIM cards from the country’s telecommunications networks, calling it a major step in improving national and cyber security.
The NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Aminu Maida, made the disclosure during a media briefing in Abuja on Monday. He clarified that while there are no unregistered SIMs active on any network, some users may have registered with false names to hide their identities.
“There are no unregistered SIMs on the network as of today,” Maida said. “However, we can’t control the names people used during registration — some may have used false identities. It’s important to note that using fake names to make or receive calls is a criminal offence in Nigeria.”
He also shared plans to enhance transparency and improve service quality in the telecoms sector. Beginning in September, the NCC will launch a public coverage and tariff map, allowing subscribers to compare mobile networks based on service quality and pricing in specific locations.
Maida emphasised the need for fresh capital in the industry, adding that the Commission has updated its corporate governance guidelines to boost investor confidence and ensure accountability. Operators are now required to submit audited financial reports.
Commenting on the recent increase in telecom tariffs, Maida explained that the adjustment was necessary, as the sector had operated without cost-reflective pricing for over ten years. He said the NCC carefully balanced the interests of both operators and consumers before approving the new rates.
Maida also pledged to work with state governors to address infrastructure threats and the issue of multiple taxation. He noted that better protection of telecom facilities and fairer levies would lead to improved services and help strengthen national security.
