The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has stated that its recently launched application portal for the National Identification Number (NIN) allows the linkage of up to 7 SIMs to one unique NIN.
This puts to rest the fear of Nigerians who have various SIMs used for different purposes on how many of such SIMs can be linked to their identification number.
The commission made this explanation while clarifying the purported mass disconnection of telecom subscribers as a result of the ongoing linkage of NIM with SIM cards.
A statement by the commission’s Director of Public Affairs, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde described the reports of mass disconnection of telephone subscribers over NIN registration as unfounded and enjoined subscribers not to entertain any fear.
Adinde stated that most of these reports are based on the erroneous assumption that for every network or SIM connection, there is one unique human subscriber.
“However, with the advent of social media and App-driven digital environment, network subscription went beyond human subscribers to include machines like PoS, Routers, Wi-Fi devices, electricity meters, CCTV, tracking devices etc,” he said.
He added that a recent survey conducted in Nigeria has shown that on average, there are now approximately four to five SIMs to every human subscriber.
“This explains the basis of allowing the linkage of up to 7 SIMs to one unique NIN in the recently launched Federal Government Portal.
“Thus, if there are 43 million Nigerians with NINs, this could account for about 172 million SIMs already linked to NINs.”
He emphasized that the current exercise of linking NIN to SIM(s) is for the common good of all Nigerians, as it has far reaching benefits which apart from enhancing general safety, will help in vital exercises like National Budgeting, Policy Planning, Social Intervention programs and many more.
Adinde also said the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy has assured that the government will continue to review the exercise in the light of experiences to ensure its smooth implementation.
