The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has made it clear that there will be no extension beyond the February 28, 2024 deadline for linking Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards to National Identification Numbers (NINs). This directive comes as part of efforts to enhance digital identity management and bolster national security within the country.
Failure to link SIM cards to NINs by the deadline has consequences, as telecommunications companies have been instructed to deactivate approximately 12 million lines that remain unlinked. The Director of Public Affairs at the NCC, Reuben Mouka, affirmed this decision, emphasizing that the deadline stands firm and no extension will be granted.
According to Mouka, the NCC has already issued public notices regarding the deadline and the consequences of non-compliance. He emphasized that there has been no indication of an extension from the NCC, and all subscribers are urged to ensure timely compliance with the linkage requirement.
This development underscores the importance of adhering to regulatory directives and maintaining compliance with national identity requirements in Nigeria's telecommunications sector. Subscribers are encouraged to promptly link their SIM cards with their NINs to avoid service disruptions and ensure seamless access to essential telecommunications services.
The directive to link your National Identification Number (NIN) with your SIM cards across various telecommunications networks—Airtel, Glo, MTN, and 9mobile—marks a significant move towards enhancing digital identity management and security within the country. This article explores how to link your NIN to Airtel, Glo, MTN, and 9Mobile, emphasizing the importance of this linkage in bolstering national security and service provision.
Importance of Linking NIN to SIM Cards
Linking your NIN to your SIM card is mandated by the government to enhance national security and improve service provision. This measure is designed to combat various crimes, including fraud and terrorism. Verifying the identity of every mobile number through the NIN linkage secures mobile numbers from unauthorized use and ensures uninterrupted access to essential services.
How to Link NIN to Airtel
To link your NIN to your Airtel number, follow these steps:
1. Dial the NIN code *996# from your Airtel line.
2. Follow the on-screen prompts to input your 11-digit NIN.
3. Confirm details to complete the process.
Upon completion, you should receive a confirmation message indicating that your NIN has been successfully linked to your Airtel SIM card.
How to Link NIN to MTN
To link your NIN to your MTN number, follow these steps:
1. Dial the NIN code for MTN, *996#, from your MTN line.
2. Follow the prompts accurately to input your 11-digit NIN.
3. Complete the process as directed.
After completion, MTN will process your NIN linking request, and you should receive a confirmation message indicating the successful linkage.
How to Link NIN to 9Mobile
To link your NIN to your 9mobile number, follow these steps:
1. Dial **996#* on your 9mobile phone.
2. Choose the option to link your NIN and follow the prompts.
3. Enter your 11-digit NIN carefully and submit.
4. You will receive a confirmation message indicating whether your NIN was successfully linked or not.
How to Link NIN to Glo Number
To link your NIN to your Glo number, you have two options:
1. **Via Glo NIN Code:** Dial *109# and follow the prompts to complete the linking process.
2. **Via Gloworld NIN Portal Registration:** Utilize the GLO Nigeria online registration portal to link your Glo number to your NIN.
Ensure your NIN is readily available and follow the instructions provided by your respective network provider carefully to complete the linkage process successfully. This linkage is crucial for compliance with regulatory requirements and ensuring the security of mobile communications in Nigeria.