The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has intensified efforts to enforce regulatory requirements for SIM-enabled devices in Nigeria, warning that non-compliant devices could be restricted from accessing the country’s mobile telecommunications networks.

The Commission, in a public notice issued on October 19, 2026, reminded manufacturers, importers, distributors, dealers and retailers of their obligations under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the Type Approval Regulations 2024 and the Type Approval Business Rules 2024.

The NCC said it was strengthening the monitoring and enforcement of existing regulations through technology-enabled verification to ensure that devices imported, distributed and sold in Nigeria meet the required standards.

Under the compliance framework, all device models intended for importation, assembly, distribution or sale in the country must obtain the Commission’s Type Approval, as stipulated by Section 132 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and Regulation 4 of the Type Approval Regulations 2024.

The Commission also directed original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), original device manufacturers (ODMs), importers and other responsible suppliers to ensure that the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) details of individual devices are submitted through the approved compliance process for verification before distribution and sale.

It urged distributors, dealers and retailers to review their existing stocks to confirm compliance with the applicable Type Approval and device verification requirements, advising them to work with their suppliers to resolve any outstanding issues.

The NCC further emphasised that newly imported devices must satisfy all relevant approval and verification requirements before being introduced into the Nigerian market.

According to the Commission, it has held extensive consultations with manufacturers, importers and relevant industry associations to facilitate understanding and implementation of the requirements.

It encouraged businesses that have not participated in the engagements, or remain uncertain about the compliance process, to seek guidance through its approved onboarding and support channels.

The Commission explained that the automated Type Approval Compliance process would enhance regulatory oversight of communications devices entering Nigeria and improve its capacity to identify irregularities in their importation and distribution.

It added that the initiative, being implemented in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service, would also support the reconciliation of import records, compliance with applicable duties and the promotion of fair competition among businesses.

The NCC noted that the framework was designed to ensure that businesses complying with regulatory obligations were not disadvantaged by those operating outside the established requirements.

It warned that, upon full implementation, devices that fail to meet the applicable standards could be barred from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks in line with the approved enforcement framework.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to working with industry stakeholders to promote compliance, protect consumers and ensure a fair and sustainable market for communications devices.

For compliance guidance and onboarding assistance, affected businesses were advised to visit the Commission’s official website at NCC Device Checker Guide or call 315 for assistance.

The notice was signed by Nnenna Ukoha, Director of Public Affairs at the Nigerian Communications Commission.