Commission Directs Importers, Dealers To Verify Devices, Submit IMEI Details
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has warned that mobile phones and other SIM-enabled devices that fail to meet its type approval and verification requirements may be restricted from accessing Nigerian telecommunications networks.
The commission said it was strengthening monitoring and enforcement through technology-enabled verification to ensure that devices imported, sold and used in the country comply with applicable standards.
In a statement issued by its Director of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha, the NCC 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 commission said all device models intended for importation, assembly, distribution or sale in Nigeria must obtain the required NCC type approval.
It said the requirement was provided for under Section 132 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and Regulation 4 of the Type Approval Regulations 2024.
The NCC also directed original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), original device manufacturers (ODMs), importers and other responsible suppliers to submit the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) information of individual devices through the approved compliance process for verification before sale and distribution.
Distributors, dealers and retailers were advised to verify that devices in their inventories meet the applicable approval and verification requirements and work with their suppliers to resolve outstanding compliance issues.
According to the commission, devices brought into Nigeria must satisfy the relevant requirements before being introduced into the market.
NCC intensifies monitoring
The commission disclosed that it had engaged manufacturers, importers and relevant industry associations as part of its efforts to improve compliance.
Businesses that had not participated in the engagements, or were uncertain about the procedures, were urged to seek guidance through the NCC’s approved onboarding and support channels.
It explained that the automated Type Approval Compliance process would strengthen oversight of devices entering the Nigerian market and improve the identification of possible irregularities in their importation and distribution.
The commission added that it was collaborating with the Nigeria Customs Service to reconcile import records, promote compliance with applicable duties and ensure fair competition among businesses.
According to the NCC, the initiative would help prevent businesses that comply with regulatory requirements from being disadvantaged by those that fail to meet their obligations.
Consumers, dealers urged to comply
The commission stressed that, upon full implementation, devices that fail to meet applicable requirements could be restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks in line with the approved enforcement framework.
It said the initiative was intended to protect consumers, improve regulatory compliance and promote a fair and sustainable market for communications devices.
The NCC reiterated its commitment to working with industry stakeholders to facilitate compliance and ensure that devices available to Nigerians meet the required standards.
It urged stakeholders seeking compliance guidance and onboarding assistance to visit the commission’s DeviceCheckerGuide or call 315 for assistance.
