NCC Warns Dealers, Importers on SIM-Enabled Device Compliance

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has urged manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers of SIM-enabled devices to comply with its type approval and device verification requirements.

The commission said the measures were designed to ensure that communications devices imported, sold and used in Nigeria meet the required standards.

The Director of Public Affairs, NCC, Nnenna Ukoha, disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday.

Ukoha said the requirements were backed by the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the Type Approval Regulations 2024 and the Type Approval Business Rules 2024.

She explained that all device models intended for importation, assembly, distribution or sale in Nigeria must obtain the necessary NCC type approval.

According to her, the commission is strengthening monitoring and enforcement through technology-enabled verification, in line with existing regulations.

She urged dealers and retailers to verify the compliance status of devices in their stock, while manufacturers and importers were advised to submit their devices’ International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) information through approved channels.

Ukoha also advised businesses to work with their suppliers to resolve outstanding compliance issues and ensure that newly imported devices meet regulatory requirements before entering the Nigerian market.

She said the NCC was collaborating with the Nigeria Customs Service to reconcile import records, ensure compliance with applicable duties and promote fair competition.

The commission warned that, upon full implementation, devices that fail to meet the applicable requirements could be restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks under the approved enforcement framework.

Ukoha reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to protecting consumers, supporting industry stakeholders and promoting a fair and sustainable communications device market.

Stakeholders seeking compliance guidance and onboarding assistance can visit www.ncc.gov.ng/DeviceCheckerGuide or call 315 for support.