NCC Unveils New Digital Platform to Combat SIM Fraud, Strengthen Trust in Economy
By ThankGod Inalegwu
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced a major step toward curbing SIM-related fraud in Nigeria with the introduction of a Telecoms Identity Risk Management System, a platform designed to enhance digital security and restore public confidence in the nation’s fast-growing digital economy.
The initiative was disclosed on Thursday by the Commission’s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Aminu Maida, during a stakeholders’ consultative forum on proposed regulatory reforms. Represented by the Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, Maida emphasized the increasing importance of SIM cards—technically known as Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Numbers (MSISDNs)—in modern digital interactions.
According to him, SIM cards have become critical tools for financial transactions, digital identity verification, and access to essential services across multiple sectors. However, their widespread usage has also exposed vulnerabilities that fraudsters exploit.
Maida noted that the Commission is currently grappling with challenges linked to recycled, swapped, churned, and barred SIMs—issues that have significantly contributed to identity theft and financial crimes in the country.
“The SIM or mobile phone number has evolved into a critical identifier underpinning financial transactions and digital authentication. However, this evolution has created new vulnerabilities that fraudsters are exploiting,” he said.
To address these risks, the NCC has developed the Telecoms Identity Risk Management System Platform, which will enable telecom operators and service providers to detect and flag suspicious activities in real time. The platform is also expected to foster collaboration among regulators, financial institutions, and security agencies, thereby strengthening Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
As part of the rollout strategy, the Commission has proposed amendments to key regulatory frameworks, including the Quality of Service Business Rules and the Registration of Communications Subscribers guidelines. One of the key provisions mandates telecom operators to notify subscribers at least 14 days before recycling or deactivating their SIM cards due to inactivity or churn.
Additionally, operators will be required to upload details of churned numbers to the new platform within seven days, ensuring transparency and enabling better monitoring of SIM lifecycle activities.
The reforms also introduce stricter measures for blocking fraudulently registered or misused SIM cards, a move aimed at protecting consumers and reducing the risks associated with identity theft.
Speaking at the forum, the Director of Cybersecurity and Internet Governance at the NCC, Olatokunbo Oyeleye, underscored the importance of trust in driving digital growth.
“Digital trust is the operating licence of the modern economy. Without it, nothing scales, and with it, everything accelerates,” she said, stressing the need to embed trust across the telecom value chain.
The NCC reiterated that the initiative reflects its commitment to a collaborative, whole-of-government approach in tackling emerging digital risks. Stakeholders have been urged to actively participate in shaping the final regulatory framework, which is expected to play a pivotal role in safeguarding Nigeria’s digital future.