The directive was contained in a statement signed by the commission’s Director, Public Affairs, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, on December 9, 2020.
According to the commission, the suspension is to make room for an “audit of the Subscriber Registration Database” as directed by the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami).
The NCC statement read partly: “The objective of the audit exercise is to verify and ensure compliance by Mobile Network Operators with the set quality standards and requirements of SIM Card Registration as issued by the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy and the Commission.
“However, where it is absolutely necessary, exemption may be granted in writing by the Commission following approval from the Federal Government.
“MNOs are to please note that non-compliance with this directive will be met with strict sanctions, including the possibility of withdrawal of operating license.
“As the Minister has earlier directed in January, 2020, all citizens are urged to immediately secure Digital Identification from the National Identity Management Commission and submit it to the Network Operators.”
According to the commission, the suspension will last “until the audit exercise is concluded, and Government has conveyed the new direction.”
