The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to extend the deadline for the National Identification Number (NIN)-SIM linkage from September 14 to September 30, 2024.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), NATCOMS National President, Mr. Deolu Ogunbanjo, highlighted the ongoing technical challenges with the National Identity Management Commission’s (NIMC) portal, which has caused delays in the process.
The NCC had initially set September 14 as the deadline for all mobile users to link their SIM cards with their NIN to improve digital security and combat fraud. However, Ogunbanjo pointed out that telecom operators are struggling to upload customer data due to congestion and capacity issues with the NIMC portal, leading to delays and frustration.
During visits to some customer centers, Ogunbanjo witnessed firsthand the slow pace of uploads and overcrowded centers, where agents struggled with the NIMC portal. He called for a two-week extension to allow NIMC to enhance its portal’s capacity, ensuring a smoother process for both telecom operators and subscribers.
Despite these challenges, some customer centers, such as those in Ikeja, were praised for their orderly and efficient service. However, the overwhelming consensus from subscribers and agents is that an extension would alleviate the congestion and allow more people to complete the linkage process.
NATCOMS continues to advocate for a smoother and more accessible process, requesting that the NCC consider the extension to support the millions of Nigerians affected.
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