The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has disclosed the resumption of the eradication of the sale and use of pre-registered SIM cards as part of its efforts to uphold compliance, licensing, and internet governance in the telecommunications sector. Speaking at the Public Inquiry on three subsidiary legislations, the Licensing Regulations 2019, Enforcement Process Regulations 2019, and Internet Code of Practice 2019, held in Abuja yesterday, the Commission's Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), Dr Aminu Maida, stated that the review was critical to addressing emerging challenges in the rapidly changing communications landscape.
Rimini Makama, Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management, represented Maida, who noted that the Enforcement Process Regulations have been revised to offer a transparent and accountable framework for compliance monitoring, investigation, and sanctions.
He stated that the amended framework would aid in combating ongoing regulatory violations, particularly the selling of pre-registered SIM cards and the practice of call masking and refilling, which he described as dangers to national security and operator revenue.
The EVC underlined that the reforms will also serve to strengthen public trust in the Commission's supervisory role. Maida also indicated that the Licensing Regulations, another major focus of the review, were being revised to incorporate new technological breakthroughs and streamline business procedures. He stated that the amendments include provisions for general authorizations, license renewals, corporate reorganization, and punishments to stimulate innovation and make conducting business easier.
In her remarks, Chizua Whyte, Head of Legal and Regulatory Services at the NCC, represented by Lawrence Abang, Head of Dispute and Litigation, stated that the review followed a six-month consultation process and reiterated the commission's commitment to inclusive and transparent regulation.
