By Abiodun Folarin
WorldStage– The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), is strengthening enforcement of existing regulations governing SIM-enabled devices, warning manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealersthat non-compliant devices could be restricted from accessing Nigeria’s mobile telecommunications networks.
The Commission said the enforcement drive would deploy technology-enabled verification to ensure that devices imported, distributed and sold in Nigeria comply with applicable type approval and device verification requirements.
In a notice to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Original Device Manufacturers (ODMs), importers, distributors, dealers and retailers, the NCC cited the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the Type Approval Regulations 2024 and the Type Approval Business Rules 2024 as the legal and regulatory framework for the exercise.
Under the requirements, all device models intended for importation, assembly, distribution or sale in Nigeria must obtain the required NCC Type Approval, in line with Section 132 of the Nigerian Communications Act and Regulation 4 of the Type Approval Regulations 2024.
The Commission also directed manufacturers, importers and other responsible suppliers to ensure that the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) information of individual devices is submitted through the approved compliance process for verification before sale and distribution.
Distributors, dealers and retailers have also been advised to review devices already in their stock to confirm compliance, working with their suppliers to address outstanding issues. New imports must equally satisfy the applicable approval and verification requirements before entering the Nigerian market.
The NCC said it had engaged OEMs, ODMs, importers and relevant industry associations as part of its participatory regulatory approach, urging businesses that had not participated in the engagements or remained uncertain about compliance procedures to seek guidance through its approved onboarding and support channels.
According to the Commission, the automated compliance process is expected to strengthen oversight of devices entering Nigeria and improve the detection of irregularities in their importation and distribution.
The initiative will also involve collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service to reconcile import records, support compliance with applicable duties and promote fair competition among businesses operating in the communications device market.
The Commission warned that, upon full implementation, devices that fail to meet the applicable requirements may be restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks, subject to the approved enforcement framework.
It reaffirmed its commitment to working with industry stakeholders to facilitate compliance, protect consumers and promote a fair and sustainable market for communications devices in Nigeria.
