SIM registration mandatory for Nigerian telecom operators
Telecoms operator in Nigeria are urged by The Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) to begin SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) cards registration, effecting from the 1st March 2010, with the aim of improving telecom security in the country, writes local newspaper Daily Trust.
“With effect from March 1, 2010, all new SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) Cards in Nigeria must be registered before activation. The registration process will include the capture of the photograph and biometrics of the subscriber. Proxy registration shall be restricted to the direct families of persons seeking registration”, addressed NCC in a statement.
According to NCC, valid identification documents like E- Passports, corporate/company or work place identity cards with Pension Identification /Tax Numbers, student ID cards from recognized institutions, as well drivers license issued by the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and E-Tax cards would be required for registration of SIM cards.
The Commission has already informed the general public and all relevant stakeholders of the initial arrangements, assuring a smooth process for all telecom operators.
The president of National Association of Telecom Companies (NATCON), Emmanuel Ekuwem, agreed to the proposed Subscribers Identification Module (SIM) card registration scheduled to begin in March 2010, as written in the local press.
The expected delay until March, criticized by some operators, is said to not be a hindrance in the process given the security issues involved. “We have the technology, the issue is the will, and I think the NCC as well as the operators have clearly demonstrated that they have the will. We can source the technology from the market here”, Ekuwem said.
