Government extends deadline for Telcos to block SIMs without NIN

The Federal Government of Nigeria has extended the deadline for registration of SIMs with National Identification Number, (NIN) as well as the cancellation of USSD and Verification Fees.

This announcement was made by the country’s National Task Force on National Identification Number (NIN) and SIM Registration in a meeting chaired by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami).

Also in attendance were major stakeholders in the sector including Chairman-NCC, EVC-NCC, DG-NITDA, DG-NIMC, ECTS/ECSM-NCC, Chairman ALTON, CEOs of MTN, Airtel, Ntel, Glo, Smile, and 9Moble in attendance.

The meeting’s objective was for the stakeholders to hold discussions on the registration period and cancellation of USSD and verification fees.

The task force gave a three weeks extension for subscribers with NIN from 30th December 2020 to 19th January 2021. It also gave a six weeks extension for subscribers without NIN from 30th December 2020 to 9th February 2021.

The task force has provided strategies to enable citizens to attend the registration in full compliance with Covid-19 protocols – particularly the use of facemasks which remains mandatory and maintenance of social distancing.

”The President appreciates Nigerians for their patience and commitment to update their Identities; The Federal Government also thanked all stakeholders for their compliance with the directives,” it said in a statement.

The president also commended the efforts of the Task Force and urges all stakeholders to take advantage of the extension to link their SIM card with their NIN. USSD and verification charges remain suspended during these extensions.