By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has proposed a mandatory 14-day notification period before telecom operators deactivate inactive SIM cards, in a move aimed at strengthening consumer protection and curbing digital identity fraud.
The proposal, contained in a consultation paper released on February 26, 2026, seeks to amend Section 2.3.1 of the Quality-of-Service (QoS) Business Rules.
Under the leadership of Executive Vice Chairman, Aminu Maida, the Commission said the new measure would require operators to notify subscribers at least 14 days before permanently churning their lines.
What Currently Happens
Under existing regulations, telecom operators deactivate SIM cards that remain inactive for six months defined as having no Revenue Generating Event. If inactivity persists for another six months, the number may be recycled and reassigned to a new user, except in cases linked to network faults.
However, the NCC noted that this system has created vulnerabilities, particularly where recycled numbers are linked to previous owners’ financial accounts or digital identities.
New Notification Requirement
The proposed amendment would compel operators to send alerts through alternative phone numbers or email addresses at least 14 days before final deactivation.
The rule will apply to both prepaid and postpaid subscribers, closing existing communication gaps and giving users adequate time to reactivate or retain their numbers.
Introduction of TIRMS
In addition to the notification rule, the Commission is introducing the Telecoms Identity Risk Management System (TIRMS), a centralized platform designed to track churned, swapped, or barred MSISDNs.
Telecom operators will be required to upload SIM status details to TIRMS within seven days of deactivation.
According to the NCC, TIRMS will enable cross-sector verification by financial institutions, regulators, and security agencies including the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), fintech companies, and other stakeholders.
The platform is expected to be operational by late March 2026.
Tackling Identity Theft Risks
The NCC described the initiative as a Regulatory Technology (RegTech) intervention aimed at strengthening Know Your Customer (KYC) processes and restoring digital trust.
Recycled numbers have been linked to cases where new subscribers inadvertently inherit fraud alerts, bank account associations, or identity verification records belonging to previous users.
By creating a centralized verification system, the Commission hopes to reduce identity theft risks and enhance Nigeria’s digital ecosystem security.
SIM Parking Option
The proposal also introduces a provision allowing subscribers to “park” unused SIM cards for up to one year at a minimal cost, offering an alternative to full deactivation.
Public Consultation Window
In line with Section 58 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, stakeholders have 21 days from the date of publication to submit comments.
The consultation window closes on March 20, 2026, after which the Commission will finalize the new rules.
