BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has restrategised to restrict mobile phones from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks over non-compliance with Type Approval recommendations.
To this end, the commission warned that manufacturers, distributors and importers of all device models intended for importation, assembly, distribution or sale in Nigeria should obtain the required NCC Type Approval.
Type approval, which is strictly enforced by the NCC, requires testing and certifying that a product meets minimum safety, technical, and environmental standards before it can be legally sold, imported, or operated in Nigeria.
The requirements were backed by the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the Type Approval Regulations 2024 and the Type Approval Business Rules 2024.
Director of Public Affairs, NCC, Nnenna Ukoha said on Tuesday in Abuja, that the commission is strengthening the monitoring and enforcement of existing requirements through technology-enabled verification.
She reminded manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers of SIM-enabled devices to comply with device verification requirements, ensuring that devices imported, sold and used in Nigeria met applicable standards.
Ukoha enjoined distributors, dealers and retailers to verify that devices already in their stock met the applicable type approval and device verification requirements.
The director pointed out that original equipment and device manufacturers, importers and other responsible suppliers should submit the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) information of their devices through the approved compliance process for verification.
Ukoha advised businesses to work with their suppliers to resolve any outstanding compliance issues, adding that the newly imported devices should also satisfy the applicable requirements before being introduced into the Nigerian market.
She informed that NCC has engaged manufacturers, importers and relevant industry associations to facilitate compliance, encouraging businesses uncertain about the process to seek guidance through its approved onboarding and support channels.
Ukoha stated that the automated compliance process would strengthen oversight of devices entering the Nigerian market and improve its ability to identify irregularities in their importation and distribution.
She noted that NCC is partnering with Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) to support the reconciliation of import records, compliance with applicable duties and the promotion of fair competition.
Ukoha advised stakeholders seeking compliance guidance and onboarding assistance to visit NCC official website for assistance.
The commission reaffirms its commitment to working with industry stakeholders to facilitate compliance, protect consumers and promote a fair and sustainable market for communications devices.
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