Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has warned manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers of SIM-enabled devices to comply with its Type Approval regulations or risk having such devices blocked from accessing mobile networks in Nigeria.
The Commission said all mobile phones and other SIM-enabled devices meant for importation, assembly, distribution or sale in Nigeria must first obtain the required Type Approval before entering the market.
In a public notice signed by Director of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha, the NCC said it was strengthening the monitoring and enforcement of the existing rules through a technology-driven verification system to ensure that only approved devices are sold and used across the country.
The notice stated: “All device models intended for importation, assembly and distribution or sale in Nigeria must have obtained the required NCC Type Approval. This requirement is as outlined in Section 132 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and Regulation 4 in the Type Approval Regulations 2024.”
The Commission also directed Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Original Device Manufacturers (ODMs), importers and other suppliers to submit the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) details of every device through the approved compliance process before the devices are sold or distributed.
It further advised distributors, dealers and retailers to confirm that devices already in their stores meet the required Type Approval and device verification conditions, while working with suppliers to resolve any outstanding compliance issues.
According to the NCC, all newly imported SIM-enabled devices must also meet the approval and verification requirements before they are released into the Nigerian market.
The Commission said it had held extensive consultations with manufacturers, importers and industry associations as part of its participatory regulatory approach. It urged businesses that have not taken part in the engagement or are unsure of the compliance process to seek guidance through its approved support channels.
The notice stated: “The automated Type Approval Compliance process will strengthen the Commission’s oversight of devices entering the Nigerian market and improve its ability to identify potential irregularities in their importation and distribution.”
The NCC explained that the initiative, being implemented in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service, would also help reconcile import records, improve compliance with import duties and promote fair competition by ensuring that compliant businesses are not placed at a disadvantage.
The Commission added: “Upon full implementation, devices that fail to meet the applicable requirements may be restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks, in accordance with the approved enforcement framework.”
The NCC reaffirmed its commitment to working with stakeholders to improve compliance, protect consumers and promote a fair and sustainable communications device market in Nigeria.
