The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has commenced an audit of the Subscriber Registration Database in the country.
The objective of the audit exercise is to ensure compliance with set quality standards and requirements by mobile network operators (MNOs).
The Commission made this known in a statement signed by its Director, Public Affairs, Dr Ikechukwu Adinde.
The NCC said the audit is in line with the Federal Government desire to consolidate the achievement of the SIM Card registration exercise and the directive of the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy to the Commission on the audit of the Subscriber Registration Database.
The Commission noted that the directive became necessary against the background of the preponderance of pre-registered SIMs with the attendant security implications associated with the use of the same to facilitate criminal activities.
“Mobile Network Operators are hereby directed to immediately suspend the sale and activation of new SIM Cards until the audit exercise is concluded.
“However, when it is absolutely necessary, exemption may be granted following approval from the Federal Government through the Commission.
“MNOs are to please note that non-compliance with this directive will be met with strict sanctions, including the possibility of withdrawal of operating license.” the Commission said.
