NCC Introduces Device Checker, Urges Nigerians to Verify Phones Before Purchase
By Pan Afric Reporters
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has urged Nigerians to verify the approval and compliance status of SIM-enabled devices before purchasing them, warning that counterfeit and non-compliant equipment could be denied access to the country’s mobile networks under its enhanced Type Approval Compliance framework.
The directive is contained in the Commission’s frequently asked questions document on the NCC Device Checker and Type Approval, which explains how consumers, device dealers, importers and manufacturers can comply with the regulatory requirements that took effect on October 7, 2026.
The NCC said consumers could check whether a device is approved and verified for use on Nigerian mobile networks by dialling *315#, visiting the Commission’s official Device Checker portal at www.ncc.gov.ng/DeviceChecker, or calling the toll-free number 315 for assistance.
According to the Commission, the framework strengthens enforcement of existing regulatory requirements rather than introducing a new obligation. It is backed by the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, including Section 132(2), and the Nigerian Communications (Type Approval) Regulations 2024.
The Commission explained that the system covers SIM-enabled devices designed to connect to Nigerian mobile networks, including smartphones, feature phones, cellular tablets, eligible Internet of Things (IoT) devices, SIM-enabled point-of-sale terminals and cellular laptops.
Existing Phones Exempt from Fresh Verification
To ease concerns among existing users, the NCC clarified that phones already connected to Nigerian mobile networks before the system took effect on October 7 had been automatically verified and required no additional action from their owners.
“Phones already in use, phones bought within Nigeria (brand new or second-hand), and phones passed on from family or friends do not require any action,” the document stated.
However, the Commission advised prospective buyers of second-hand devices to check their status before payment, stressing that previous use on a Nigerian network does not automatically guarantee that a device meets all applicable requirements.
For devices purchased abroad for personal use, the NCC said different verification procedures might apply, with eligible individuals required to provide details of their travel history. It advised affected users to call 315 for guidance.
NCC Assures Users on Privacy
Addressing concerns about privacy and surveillance, the Commission said the Device Checker uses device identification information, including International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers, to establish compliance with Type Approval requirements.
The NCC stressed that the system does not give it access to users’ private communications, photographs or other files stored on their devices, nor does it enable the Commission to monitor calls or track users’ physical movements.
“The technology supporting Device Checker uses device identification information, including IMEI numbers, to verify compliance with NCC Type Approval requirements,” the document stated.
It added that device identifiers might be associated with mobile numbers for verification and regulatory compliance purposes.
Consumers Warned Against Verification Scams
The Commission also cautioned Nigerians against fraudsters seeking to exploit the verification process, particularly through requests for one-time verification codes.
It advised consumers to use only the official USSD service and NCC website, warning them never to disclose verification codes to sellers, callers or other individuals.
“If you start an official verification process, a code may be sent to you: enter it only in that process and never tell the code to a caller, seller or other person,” the NCC said.
Consumers who encounter unsuccessful verification results were advised not to pay for the affected devices until the seller clarifies and resolves the issue. The Commission emphasised that a device that cannot be verified is not automatically confirmed to be counterfeit.
Importers, Sellers to Bear Compliance Responsibility
The NCC said manufacturers, importers, suppliers and other businesses placing communications devices on the Nigerian market were responsible for meeting applicable Type Approval and device-verification requirements.
It explained that consumers purchasing devices locally were not expected to obtain Type Approval themselves, although they were encouraged to confirm compliance before completing transactions.
The Commission also clarified that a successful Device Checker result does not guarantee that every component of a device is genuine or that the device has no defects, unauthorised repairs or software problems. Buyers were therefore advised to patronise reputable sellers and conduct appropriate checks.
On stolen devices, the NCC said a phone could be blocked across Nigerian mobile networks after the theft was reported and ownership verified, helping prevent its use by unauthorised persons and supporting recovery efforts.
The Commission urged consumers and industry stakeholders to cooperate with the initiative, describing device verification as an important measure for detecting cloned and counterfeit equipment, strengthening network integrity and protecting users.
For further assistance, consumers can dial 315, contact their mobile service provider or reach the NCC through its official consumer support channels, including 622.
