The Federal Government has suspended the sale of new Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards nationwide, reports ITREALMS.
The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Isa Ibrahim Pantami was quoted as directing the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to embark on another audit of the Subscriber Registration Database again, thereby pursing activation of new ones.
A press statement by the Director, Public Affairs at NCC, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, made available to ITREALMS noted that the objective of the audit exercise is to verify and ensure compliance by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) with the set quality standards and requirements of SIM Card Registration as issued by the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy and the Commission.
Accordingly, MNOs are hereby directed to immediately suspend the sale, registration and activation of new SIM Cards until the audit exercise is concluded, and Government has conveyed the new direction.
However, where it is absolutely necessary, exemption may be granted in writing by the Commission following approval from the Federal Government.
MNOs are to please note that non-compliance with this directive will be met with strict sanctions, including the possibility of withdrawal of operating license.
As the Minister has earlier directed in January, 2020, all citizens are urged to immediately secure Digital Identification from the National Identity Management Commission and submit it to the Network Operators.
Chuks Egbune/DoP
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