NCC Begins Enhanced Checks to Block Fake, Non-Compliant Communication Devices

NCC Begins Enhanced Checks to Block Fake, Non-Compliant Communication Devices

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has commenced the implementation of an enhanced Type Approval Compliance framework to identify fake, cloned and non-compliant SIM-enabled communication devices in the country.

The initiative is aimed at improving telecommunications network performance, strengthening consumer protection and ensuring that communication devices imported, sold and used in Nigeria meet established technical and regulatory standards.

The Director of Technical Standards and Network Integrity at the NCC, Engr. Edoyemi Ogoh, disclosed this on Tuesday, during a media briefing at the Commission’s head office annex in Mbora, Abuja.

Ogoh explained that the framework would enable the Commission to electronically verify the Type Approval status of SIM-enabled devices, making it easier to detect equipment that fails to meet applicable technical and regulatory requirements.

He stressed that the quality and safety of devices connected to telecommunications networks were critical to ensuring reliable services and protecting consumers.

According to him, the integrity of the telecommunications industry depends not only on network infrastructure but also on the quality, safety and compliance of devices accessing these networks.

He described Type Approval as more than a regulatory requirement, noting that it was an essential mechanism for protecting consumers, safeguarding network performance and sustaining confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy.

Ogoh said the Commission’s regulatory mandate was backed by Section 132(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, which requires relevant service providers, facilities providers, equipment manufacturers and suppliers to obtain Type Approval before communications equipment can be sold or used in Nigeria.

He added that the enhanced framework would strengthen regulatory oversight, improve compliance with technical standards and promote a fair and transparent business environment for legitimate operators.

The NCC Director disclosed that the Commission had engaged stakeholders across the device value chain following the issuance of its Type Approval Business Rules in August 2024.

He said the consultations involved original equipment manufacturers, importers, dealers, telecommunications service providers, government agencies and industry associations, whose contributions helped shape the implementation process.

According to him, the Commission is also collaborating with relevant stakeholders, including the Nigeria Customs Service, manufacturers, importers and market associations, to ensure effective implementation.

Ogoh noted that devices already in stock were being onboarded into the system, while future imports would be subjected to the necessary verification and authentication processes.

He said the measures would provide a more effective mechanism for identifying fake, cloned and non-compliant devices and preventing them from connecting to telecommunications networks.

The Commission urged consumers to support the initiative by verifying the approval status of communication devices before purchasing them.

Ogoh specifically advised Nigerians buying mobile phones, tablets, modems, point-of-sale (POS) terminals and other SIM-enabled devices to confirm from sellers that the products had received NCC Type Approval.

He emphasised that every consumer deserved the assurance that communication devices purchased and used in the country met the required standards.

The NCC maintained that the use of non-compliant devices could undermine network performance and complicate regulatory oversight, adding that improved compliance would enhance the reliability and efficiency of telecommunications services used by millions of Nigerians.