Nigeria’s communications regulator has warned companies handling SIM-capable devices that products failing to meet approval and verification rules could ultimately be blocked from connecting to the country’s mobile networks.
The Nigerian Communications Commission said it is intensifying supervision and enforcement of existing device rules through technology-based checks. The measures are intended to ensure that mobile devices imported into, marketed in and used across Nigeria comply with required technical standards.
Compliance obligations for device suppliers
- The Commission reminded original equipment manufacturers, original device manufacturers, importers, distributors, dealers and retailers of their legal responsibilities under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the Type Approval Regulations 2024 and the Type Approval Business Rules 2024.
- Every device model planned for import, local assembly, distribution or sale in Nigeria must first secure NCC Type Approval. The requirement is set out in Section 132 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and Regulation 4 of the Type Approval Regulations 2024.
- Manufacturers, importers and other responsible suppliers must submit the International Mobile Equipment Identity, or IMEI, details for each individual device through the authorised compliance system before products are sold or distributed.
- Distributors, dealers and retailers have been told to review devices already held in inventory and confirm that they satisfy both approval and verification requirements. Where gaps are found, they should coordinate with suppliers to address unresolved compliance matters.
- All future shipments entering Nigeria must meet the rules before they can be placed on the domestic market.
Automated checks and customs coordination
The NCC said it has consulted with OEMs, ODMs, importers and relevant industry associations as part of its collaborative regulatory process. Businesses that have not taken part in those discussions, or that remain unclear about the requirements, were encouraged to obtain assistance through approved onboarding and support channels.
Nnenna Ukoha, the Commission’s Director of Public Affairs, said the automated type-approval compliance system will give the regulator stronger oversight of devices entering the country and help it detect possible irregularities in imports and distribution.
The programme is being rolled out with the Nigeria Customs Service. It is expected to help reconcile import documentation, support compliance with relevant customs duties and create more even competitive conditions for businesses operating in the communications-device market.
Potential network restrictions
Once the enforcement framework is fully operational, devices that do not satisfy the required standards may be denied access to Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks.
The regulator said it would continue working with industry participants to make compliance easier, safeguard consumers and support a fair and sustainable market for communications devices.
Businesses seeking compliance instructions or onboarding support can consult the NCC’s Device Checker Guide at www.ncc.gov.ng/DeviceCheckerGuide or call 315.
