ABUJA — In a decisive move to curb rising cases of SIM-related fraud and identity theft, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has convened a high-level stakeholders’ forum to drive the implementation of a Telecoms Identity Risk Management System (TIRMS).
Speaking at the hybrid consultative meeting on Thursday, Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, Aminu Maida, said the initiative is aimed at strengthening trust and security within Nigeria’s digital communications ecosystem.
Represented by the Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Haraya Makama, Maida said the forum brought together industry experts, security agencies, financial regulators, telecom operators and consumer groups to shape a robust framework for managing telecom identity risks.
He explained that the TIRMS platform is a secure, regulatory-backed system designed to provide a unified approach to safeguarding the integrity and usage of Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) data across networks.
According to him, mobile phone numbers—technically known as Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Numbers (MSISDN)—have become critical identifiers for financial transactions, digital authentication and access to essential services.
However, he warned that this growing reliance has exposed the system to vulnerabilities.
“The fraudulent use of recycled, swapped, churned and barred SIMs has become a major channel for financial fraud and identity theft, undermining public confidence in digital platforms,” he said.
To address the challenge, Maida disclosed that the TIRMS platform would enable service providers across sectors to verify mobile numbers linked to suspicious or fraudulent activities before granting access to services.
He added that the system would also enhance accountability and strengthen digital security nationwide.
As part of efforts to institutionalise the platform, the NCC boss said the Commission has proposed amendments to existing regulations, including Quality of Service and Subscriber Registration rules.
The proposed changes, he said, would mandate telecom operators to notify subscribers at least 14 days before deactivating or recycling their lines, and require the submission of churned number details to the TIRMS platform within seven days.
He added that a new regulatory framework would also be introduced for blocking fraudulently registered or misused SIMs.
“These measures are designed to promote transparency, protect subscribers and provide regulatory clarity,” he stated.
Maida stressed the need for collaboration among government agencies and industry players, noting that a unified approach is essential to bridging gaps across sectors.
He urged participants to contribute meaningfully to the deliberations to ensure the development of a secure, innovative and trustworthy digital environment.
The forum marks a significant step in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its digital economy and combat the growing threat of telecom-enabled financial crimes.
