Over the weekend, telecommunication operators in Nigeria took action against no fewer than 40 million telephone lines, following the expiration of the February 28, 2024 deadline set by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). This directive mandated telecom consumers to associate their Subscriber Identity Modules (SIMs) with their National Identity Numbers (NINs).
This figure represents a significant increase from the 12 million telephone lines initially slated for deactivation by telcos, in compliance with the NCC directive.
The NCC had issued a notice in December 2023, instructing telcos to deactivate SIMs that had not been linked to their owners’ NINs by February 28, 2024.
On Thursday, Reuben Mouka, the NCC Director of Public Affairs, emphasized that there would be no extension of the deadline. Telcos failing to enforce the deadline would face sanctions, he warned.
To prevent potential disconnection of mobile numbers, pathwaynews Online offers a detailed guide on how to link mobile numbers to NIN using the NIMC Personal Identity digital application, as observed and meticulously followed by our correspondent.
- Download the NIMC Personal Identity application from Google Store or Apple Store.
- Upon downloading the application, you can link up to approximately 28 mobile numbers to your NIN.
- Input your 11-digit NIN on the NIMC Personal Identity page to proceed with the linkage.
- If you are unaware of your NIN, retrieve it by dialing *346# on the registered mobile number or provide your first name, middle name, surname, and date of birth in the information box provided by the app to search for the NIN.
- After providing the NIN, the app will confirm your number.
- If the number linked to your NIN is incorrect, indicate that you wish to use another number from the options provided.
- Provide the alternative number, and you will promptly receive an SMS containing a token to proceed.
- If you do not receive an OTP, dial 3642*NIN#.
- You will receive an SMS containing your UserID and OTP.
- Input the OTP, after which you will be directed to your identity platform, displaying your UserID, NIN information, and a picture.
- Click on the icon indicating that you can link your numbers, and proceed to add your numbers.
- Another OTP will be sent to the number(s) you wish to link; input it, and the numbers will be successfully linked.
