The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has begun implementing an enhanced regulatory framework to identify fake, cloned and non-compliant devices capable of connecting to telecommunications networks in Nigeria.
The initiative is aimed at improving network performance, protecting consumers and ensuring that communication devices sold or used in the country meet established technical and regulatory standards.
The Director of Technical Standards and Network Integrity at the NCC, Engr. Edoyemi Ogoh, announced the development on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, during a media briefing at the commission’s head office annex in Mbora, Abuja.
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Ogoh explained that the enhanced Type Approval Compliance framework would allow the commission to electronically verify whether SIM-enabled devices had received the necessary regulatory approval.
According to him, the system would strengthen the NCC’s ability to detect equipment that fails to meet applicable standards and prevent non-compliant devices from accessing telecommunications networks.
Ogoh said the quality and safety of devices connected to telecommunications networks were essential to maintaining reliable services and protecting consumers.
“The integrity of the telecommunications industry depends not only on network infrastructure but also on the quality, safety and compliance of the devices that access and are used on these networks,” he said.
He described Type Approval as an important regulatory safeguard that protects consumers, supports network performance and helps maintain confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy.
The NCC director also cited Section 132(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 as the legal basis for requiring relevant communications equipment to obtain regulatory approval before being sold or used in Nigeria.
He said the new framework would improve regulatory oversight and promote a transparent operating environment for legitimate businesses in the telecommunications sector.
“The Commission’s objective in this regard is to enhance compliance, improve regulatory effectiveness, and ensure that legitimate businesses can operate in a fair and transparent environment,” Ogoh stated.
NCC Moves To Verify Devices Already In The Market
As part of the implementation process, the commission has engaged stakeholders across the communications device supply chain following the release of its Type Approval Business Rules in August 2024.
Ogoh said the consultations involved original equipment manufacturers, importers, dealers, telecommunications service providers, government agencies and industry associations.
He added that the NCC was collaborating with relevant stakeholders, including the Nigeria Customs Service, manufacturers, importers and market associations, to ensure the framework is effectively implemented.
According to him, devices already in stock are being onboarded into the verification system, while future imports will be subjected to the required authentication and compliance checks.
“This will provide a more effective mechanism for identifying non-compliant, cloned, or fake devices and prevent them from connecting to our networks,” he said.
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The commission expects the process to make it easier to identify devices that do not meet technical requirements while improving compliance across the industry.
NCC Advises Nigerians To Check Devices Before Purchase
The commission has also urged consumers to verify the approval status of communication devices before buying them.
Ogoh advised Nigerians purchasing mobile phones, tablets, modems, point-of-sale (POS) terminals and other SIM-enabled equipment to ask sellers whether the products have received NCC Type Approval.
“Every consumer deserves confidence that the communications devices being purchased and used meet required standards,” he said.
He warned that non-compliant equipment could affect network performance and make regulatory monitoring more difficult.
The NCC said stronger compliance with its technical requirements would help improve the reliability and efficiency of telecommunications services relied upon by millions of Nigerians.