The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) have announced a strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing processes for the linkage of the National Identification Number (NIN) and SIM by telecom consumers nationwide.
In a joint statement by the Technical Adviser, Media, and Communications to the DG/CEO of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Mr. Ayodele Babalola; and Director Public Affairs, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Reuben Muoka, the two commissions recalled that in recent times, the NIN-SIM linkage exercise had become subject of national discourse, reflecting the critical importance of aligning SIM registrations with individuals’ unique national identification numbers.
The spokespersons stated that recognising the significance of this initiative in enhancing security and improving service delivery, both NIMC and NCC were committed to improving the processes and enhancing efficiency of the NIN-SIM linkage.
Specifically, they stated that under this collaboration, NIMC and NCC would work closely to explore synergies and leverage each other’s expertise and resources in key areas of streamlining the NIN-SIM linkage process by ensuring a seamless experience for Nigerian telecommunication subscribers, including exploring innovative approaches to facilitate the swift verification and authentication of NINs during SIM registration and activation processes.
Also, in Capacity Building and Public Awareness, both agencies will collaborate on initiatives aimed at enhancing public awareness and understanding of the NIN-SIM linkage requirements. This includes educational campaigns, training sessions for stakeholders, and the dissemination of accurate information to the public to encourage compliance with the linkage directives.
On Data Verification and Validation, the NIMC will continue to extend its support to NCC by providing assistance in verifying National Identification Numbers (NINs) associated with SIM registrations. By leveraging NIMC’s robust database and authentication infrastructure, telecommunication operators will validate submitted NINs while ensuring the accuracy and integrity of subscriber data.
This is even as the two commissions stated on Policy Harmonisation and Regulatory Framework they will collaborate on aligning policies and regulatory frameworks to facilitate the seamless integration of NIN-SIM linkage processes within the telecommunications ecosystem, including harmonising data protection and privacy regulations to safeguard the confidentiality and security of subscriber information.
Both NIMC and NCC restated their commitment to fostering a collaborative and transparent partnership that prioritizes the interests of Nigerian citizens and promotes national development, adding that by pooling our resources and expertise, they aim to overcome the challenges associated with the NIN-SIM linkage exercise and ensure its continued successful implementation.
