In response to challenges and requests for extensions, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed telecommunication companies to prolong the disconnection of telephone lines not linked to National Identification Numbers (NINs) from April 15, 2024, to July 31, 2024.
The decision, communicated via a letter to telcos, particularly targets individuals with four SIMs linked to a single phone line. This extension aims to address the complexities surrounding the linking process.
The disconnection process, initiated in February and rolled out in three phases, witnessed the barring of approximately 40 million lines not linked to NINs during the initial deadline on February 28, 2024. Subsequent phases occurred on March 29, 2024, and the third phase, originally slated for April 15, 2024, has now been rescheduled to commence on July 31, 2024.
While the exact number of lines affected by the most recent deadline remains undisclosed, telecom companies are expected to proceed with disconnecting lines not linked with NINs, albeit within the extended timeframe.
During this extended period, telecom operators are instructed to prioritise the verification of existing subscribers over new ones, aligning with the regulatory emphasis on ensuring compliance with NIN linkage requirements.
