Nigerian Government Faces Criticism Over NIN-SIM Linkage Inefficiency
Numerous government agencies in Nigeria are struggling with inefficiency, particularly the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), which has been tasked with registering citizens for the National Identity Number (NIN). The NIN linkage policy implemented by the NCC demands that citizens link their NIN to their Subscriber Identity Module but continues to encounter significant challenges. It is unacceptable for citizens to endure registration hardships due to government inefficiency.
Recently, the NIN-SIM linkage issue ignited public outrage as telecommunications companies restricted access to SIM cards that had not been linked to their owners’ NINs ahead of the July 31 deadline set by the NCC. This situation led to widespread confusion among Nigerians, who expressed frustration over the disruption to their daily activities and businesses. Many users flocked to customer service centers in search of solutions, resulting in chaos and protests.
Launched in December 2022, the NIN-SIM linkage policy aims to enhance customer identification and prevent anonymous mobile phone use in Nigeria. This initiative is critical in combating identity theft, kidnapping, cybercrime, and other criminal activities.
In past instances, kidnappers have utilized unregistered SIMs to orchestrate ransom schemes, complicating law enforcement efforts. Recent statements from law enforcement indicated a surge in criminal cases associated with these untraceable communications.
The NCC estimates that Nigeria loses approximately $500 million annually due to various forms of cybercrime, including hacking and online fraud. As a result, the government has mandated NIN-SIM verification as part of broader Know-Your-Customer (KYC) initiatives.
As of April 2024, the National Identity Management Commission reported that 105 million Nigerians had enrolled for their NIN, within a larger context of 219 million active mobile subscriptions in the country.
In April 2022, following NCC directives, more than 72 million active mobile lines were barred due to NIN-SIM linkage non-compliance. A 2023 notice from the NCC stated that SIMs would be barred if not linked to their owners’ NINs by February 28, 2024, with the deadline for compliance initially set for April 15 but later extended to July 13, 2024.
While millions have successfully linked their SIMs to their NINs, numerous users have suddenly discovered their SIMs remain unregistered.
In its first-quarter 2024 financial report, MTN Nigeria noted that 8.6 million lines had been barred. Other major telecom operators are reportedly following suit, with estimates suggesting over 40 million lines could have been affected between February and April.
Although the NCC has instructed for blocked lines to be restored in response to public outcry, this solution is merely a temporary fix.
The failure of agencies and telecom operators to instill confidence in the public regarding the linkage process has left many citizens frustrated. Registration centers are overcrowded, with individuals waiting days or even weeks to obtain their NINs before attempting to link their SIMs.
Poor internet connectivity and erratic power supply continue to hinder operations at these registration centers, exacerbating the situation for citizens. Additionally, many individuals report being extorted for services they should receive freely.
The NCC and the National Identity Management Commission must enhance their collaboration, while telecom companies should be compelled to streamline the NIN-SIM linkage process.
No subscriber should face unsuccessful linkage results after enduring the complexities of NIN registration. The responsibility lies with the government to ensure that all new SIMs are properly registered and to safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s multiple biometric databases against cyber threats and breaches.
Furthermore, the government should work towards harmonizing existing databases to improve reliability and efficiency in identity verification efforts.
