NCC WARNS DEALERS, IMPORTERS AS UNAPPROVED SIM-ENABLED DEVICES RISK NETWORK RESTRICTIONS
By Pan Afric Reporters
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has warned manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers of SIM-enabled devices that non-compliant products could be restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks as it intensifies enforcement of existing type approval and device verification requirements.
The Commission gave the warning in a public notice dated October 19, 2026, signed by its Director of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha, reminding industry stakeholders of their obligations under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the Type Approval Regulations 2024 and the Type Approval Business Rules 2024.
The NCC said it was strengthening monitoring and enforcement through technology-enabled verification to ensure that devices imported, distributed, sold and used in Nigeria meet the required technical and regulatory standards.
Under the requirements, all device models intended for importation, assembly, distribution or sale must obtain the Commission’s type approval, as provided under Section 132 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and Regulation 4 of the Type Approval Regulations 2024.
The Commission also directed original equipment manufacturers, original device manufacturers, importers and other responsible suppliers to ensure that the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) information of individual devices is submitted through the approved compliance process for verification before sale and distribution.
It further urged distributors, dealers and retailers to review devices already in their inventories and work with suppliers to resolve any outstanding compliance issues. New imports, it said, must satisfy the applicable approval and verification requirements before entering the Nigerian market.
Explaining the purpose of the initiative, the NCC stated that the automated compliance process “will strengthen the Commission’s oversight of devices entering the Nigerian market and improve its ability to identify potential irregularities in their importation and distribution.”
The Commission said it had held extensive consultations with manufacturers, importers and relevant industry associations as part of its participatory regulatory approach. Businesses that had not participated in the engagements, or remained uncertain about the compliance process, were encouraged to seek guidance through the Commission’s approved onboarding and support channels.
The NCC added that it was working with the Nigeria Customs Service to reconcile import records, promote compliance with applicable duties and strengthen fair competition, ensuring that businesses meeting their obligations were not disadvantaged by non-compliant operators.
It warned that, upon full implementation, devices that fail to meet the prescribed requirements “may be restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks, in accordance with the approved enforcement framework.”
Reaffirming its commitment to consumer protection and a sustainable communications market, the Commission urged all stakeholders to comply with the requirements and seek assistance where necessary.
Manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers can access compliance guidance through www.ncc.gov.ng/DeviceCheckerGuide or call 315 for assistance.
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