The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has warned manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers of SIM-enabled devices to comply with its type approval and device verification requirements or risk having non-compliant devices restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks.
The Commission said it was strengthening the monitoring and enforcement of existing regulations through technology-enabled verification to ensure that devices imported, sold and used in Nigeria meet applicable standards.
The NCC disclosed this in a notice signed by the Director of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha, reminding Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Original Device Manufacturers (ODMs), importers, distributors, dealers and retailers of their statutory obligations under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the Type Approval Regulations 2024 and the Type Approval Business Rules 2024.
According to the Commission, all device models intended for importation, assembly, distribution or sale in Nigeria must obtain the required NCC Type Approval, as stipulated in Section 132 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and Regulation 4 of the Type Approval Regulations 2024.
It also directed OEMs, ODMs, importers and other responsible suppliers to ensure that the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) information of individual devices is submitted through the approved compliance process for verification before sale and distribution.
The Commission urged distributors, dealers and retailers to verify that devices already in their stock meet the applicable type approval and verification requirements, advising them to work with their suppliers to resolve any outstanding compliance issues.
It added that new imports must also satisfy the requirements before being introduced into the Nigerian market.
The NCC said it had engaged OEMs, ODMs, importers and relevant industry associations as part of its participatory regulatory approach.
It, however, encouraged businesses that had not participated in the engagements or were uncertain about the compliance process to seek guidance through its approved onboarding and support channels.
The Commission explained that the automated type approval compliance process would strengthen its oversight of devices entering Nigeria and improve its ability to identify potential irregularities in their importation and distribution.
It added that the initiative, being implemented in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service, would support the reconciliation of import records, compliance with applicable duties and fair competition among businesses.
The NCC warned that, upon full implementation, devices that fail to meet the applicable requirements could be restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks in line with the approved enforcement framework.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to working with industry stakeholders to facilitate compliance, protect consumers and promote a fair and sustainable market for communications devices.
It advised stakeholders seeking compliance guidance and onboarding assistance to visit its website at www.ncc.gov.ng/DeviceCheckerGuide or call 315 for assistance.
NCC warns device dealers over non-compliance, threatens network restrictions