Telecom operator, 9mobile, has reiterated the call for customers to link their SIMs to their National Identification Number before the February 29, 2024, deadline, warning that unlinked lines will be fully disconnected.
In a statement released by the company, the Director of Customer Care, Ehimare Omoike emphasised that the action complied with the directive of the Nigerian Communications Commission.
Omoike further explained that failure to comply with the directive would result in customers being unable to make or receive calls, access the internet, send SMS, receive One Time Password, or receive bank alerts.
The NCC issued the directive in December 2023, mandating all telephone subscribers to link their NIN to their operator’s network to verify the identity of phone users and curb criminal use of network services.
The deadline was set due to over 35 per cent of subscribers’ lines remaining unlinked to their NIN.
According to Omoike, customers whose mobile lines are not linked to their NIN will be disconnected from all telecommunication services of the network.
“Your line will be disconnected when you do not link your SIM to your National Identity Number. The implication here is that as a subscriber on the 9mobile network, you will be completely shut out from access to the virtual world and you will be greatly inconvenienced.
“We, therefore, urge all our valued subscribers to endeavour to link their mobile lines with their NIN before February 28, 2024, to keep enjoying endless and seamless value offerings that enhance their lifestyle from 9mobile,” Omoike stated.
To enhance the integrity and transparency of the SIM registration process, as well as achieve a nationwide digital identity database, Omoike urged customers to visit the company’s outlets for immediate linking of their lines with their NIN or utilise the online tool to locate the nearest 9mobile experience centres.
This mandatory government policy, implemented by the NCC, seeks to validate the NIN with the National Identity Management Commission and match the subscriber’s NIN records with their SIM registration details to guarantee accurate subscriber identification.