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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a USSD code, *315#, to enable Nigerians to check whether their mobile phones and other eligible devices are approved for use on the country’s telecommunications networks.
The service, known as the NCC Device Checker, allows consumers to verify the approval and verification status of their devices before purchasing them, particularly second-hand phones and smartphones imported from abroad.
The initiative forms part of the commission’s strengthened Type Approval Compliance framework, which took effect on October 7, 2026. The framework is aimed at improving device compliance, protecting consumers and safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s telecommunications networks.
Consumers can also check their devices through the commission’s official website at https://www.ncc.gov.ng/devicechecker.
How to check your phone’s NCC approval status
To check a phone’s status, users are required to open the device’s dialler and dial *315#. They should then follow the instructions displayed by the NCC Device Checker and review the result to determine whether the device has been approved and verified for use on Nigerian mobile networks.
Depending on the verification process, users may be asked to provide the device’s 15-digit International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number.
The IMEI can be obtained by dialling *#06# on most mobile phones. It may also be found in the device’s settings or on its original packaging.
Consumers who prefer an online option can visit the NCC Device Checker portal to verify their devices.
Devices covered by the NCC checker
The verification service covers eligible devices that connect to mobile telecommunications networks.
These include smartphones, feature phones, cellular tablets, modems, SIM-enabled laptops and Point of Sale (POS) terminals.
Type approval is a regulatory requirement intended to ensure that communications equipment meets applicable technical standards before it is sold or used in Nigeria.
The commission’s device verification initiative is also designed to help consumers identify potentially counterfeit, cloned or non-compliant devices that could raise concerns about quality, security and network integrity.
Will unapproved phones be disconnected?
Under the strengthened compliance framework, devices that fail to meet applicable type-approval and verification requirements may be denied access to Nigerian mobile networks.
However, an unsuccessful or incomplete verification result does not automatically mean that a phone is counterfeit.
Consumers whose devices return an unsuccessful result are advised to follow the instructions provided by the checker and seek clarification from their sellers, mobile network operators or the NCC.
According to the information provided by the commission, phones already connected to Nigerian mobile networks before the framework took effect on October 7, 2026, were automatically verified under the initial process.
Owners of such devices are therefore not expected to take additional action under that initial verification arrangement.
Consumers who receive compliance warnings are encouraged to confirm their devices’ status and seek assistance before deciding whether to replace them.
Should you check a phone before buying it?
Consumers are advised to verify a phone’s status before paying for it, whether it is brand-new or second-hand.
Although manufacturers, importers and suppliers are responsible for meeting applicable approval requirements, buyers can use the Device Checker to confirm a device’s status before completing a purchase.
People buying phones from local retailers should ask sellers to confirm that the devices meet the relevant requirements and carry out a check where necessary.
For devices personally imported from abroad, additional verification procedures may apply. Consumers in such situations are advised to contact the NCC for guidance on the requirements relevant to their devices.
What to do if your phone is not verified
If the Device Checker fails to confirm a phone’s approval status, users should not immediately conclude that the device is fake.
Instead, they should follow the instructions provided by the service and contact the seller or their mobile network operator for assistance. They can also seek support through the NCC’s official channels.
The commission has also cautioned consumers against verification scams, advising them to use only its official USSD service and Device Checker website.
Users should avoid disclosing one-time verification codes or other sensitive security information to callers, sellers or third parties claiming to offer assistance.
In summary, Nigerians can dial *315# to check their phone’s NCC approval status, visit https://www.ncc.gov.ng/devicechecker for online verification, or call 315 for assistance.
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