Kano is hotbed of unregistered SIM – Danbatta

• warns subscribers against rues violation

The Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) has expressed worry that Kano State has become a criminal den for free SIM card registration.

Executive Vice Chairman of the commission, Professor Umar Garba Danbatta said this in a statement in Kano State.

Danbatta said the NCC widened its intelligent dragnet to capture the gang peddling the circulation, reminding them of existing legal implication of their actions.

“Let me appeal to subscribers never to purchase unregistered SIM or when purchased they refuse to register. It is advisable to buy registered SIM or register the SIM the very moment you purchase. It is clearly illegal to activate unregistered SIM and it is very important for people to know the security risk.

“We have directed the service providers to ensure a conducive atmosphere is provided for people to register their SIM and I want to believe they are doing so. NCC will not rest until we apprehend those who specialize in this crime. Security agents are working round the clock to ensure they are brought to book”.

Although Danbatta disclosed a record of 43.3 per cent broadband penetrations and 88 million network subscribers as at August 2020, he acknowledged the high cost of data tariff and poor connectivity in some parts of the country.

The NCC boss assured that the commission has set 2020/2025 a new framework to provide efficient connectivity through deployment of fibre networks to strengthen broadband connectivity across the country.

He explained that the government is presently addressing the challenges of fibre capacity that will channel network from Lagos down to the hinterland and the issuance of operational licenses to more Infracos that will support the existing firms to rebuild the communication infrastructure.

The Executive Vice Chairman stressed that the NCC will soon complete the construction of digital packs in Kano and other geopolitical zones to create employment opportunities for teeming youths through the building of requisite digital skills.

When fully operational, Professor Danbatta said the pack will develop the digital capacity of the youths to produce mobile applications for the growing telecom and ICT industries thereby boosting economic stability and reducing youth unrest in the country.