The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has registered approximately 231 million telecommunications devices across the country as it introduces a new verification system to prevent counterfeit, cloned and unapproved phones from accessing mobile networks.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening consumer protection, improving network quality and tracking telecommunications devices imported and sold in Nigeria.
The Director of Technical Standards and Network Integrity at the NCC, Edoyemi Ogoh, disclosed this during a media briefing on the implementation of the Device Checker and Type Approval Compliance framework in Abuja.
Ogoh explained that devices already operating on Nigerian networks had been automatically captured before the verification system became fully operational, meaning existing subscribers would not need to undertake additional registration.
He, however, said newly introduced devices must meet the commission’s verification requirements before accessing telecommunications networks.
The NCC director clarified that previously connected devices, including those that might not meet current approval standards, would not be disconnected retrospectively.
He added that the framework was designed to prevent further entry of non-compliant devices into the telecommunications ecosystem.
According to him, the commission is collaborating with the Nigeria Customs Service, manufacturers, importers and dealers to ensure that devices are authenticated before entering the Nigerian market.
The system will also enable regulators to identify device importers, dates of importation and quantities, strengthening efforts to curb the supply of counterfeit products.
Ogoh noted that Section 132 subsection 2 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 requires telecommunications equipment to obtain regulatory approval before being sold or used in Nigeria.
He warned that counterfeit devices could undermine network quality, as faulty equipment may interfere with telecommunications infrastructure and affect other subscribers connected to the same cell site.
