ALTON Pledges to Comply with FG Directive on SIM-NIN Linkage

The Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) says it will comply with the directive of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to bar out-going calls on subscriber lines that are not in compliance with the SIM-NIN linkage Policy requirement.

According to the policy requirement, all Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) must be linked with a National Identification Number (NIN).

A statement signed by ALTON Chairman, Gbenga Adebayo urged telecommunication subscribers who have not obtained and/or linked a NIN to their SIMs, to do so at any of the designated centres.

The statement confirmed that ALTON members have received formal directives from the NCC to bar out-going calls on subscriber lines that are not in compliance with the SIM-NIN linkage.

The directive followed multiple extensions of the deadline, which have been granted by the Federal Government to allow subscribers to complete the SIM-NIN linkage.

Click To Read: Over 125 Millions SIMs Link With NIN as Minister Directs Telcos to Bar Outgoing Calls on Unlinked SIM Lines

The ALTON statement also stressed that members remain committed to supporting the Federal Government of Nigeria as well as upholding the rights of citizens to communicate, share information freely and responsibly, and to enjoy privacy and security regarding their data and their use of digital communication.

Recall, Business Remarks reported that according to the minister the deadlines for the SIM-NIN linkage have been extended on multiple occasions to allow Nigerians to freely comply with the Policy. The FG also took into consideration the passionate appeals by several bodies – Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Civil Societies, Professional Bodies and a host of others – for the extension of the deadlines in the past.

As of date, over 125 Million SIMs have had their NINs submitted for immediate linkage, verification and authentication. Similarly, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued over 78 Million unique NINs till date.

The Minister also emphasized that enrolment for the NIN is a continuous exercise and NIN is a precondition for service in Telcos, banks, Nigerian Immigration Service, and for several other government services. He also encouraged Nigerians and legal residents to visit NIN registration centers for the enrollment and issuance of valid NINs.