…Commission directs manufacturers, importers, dealers to verify devices, warns that phones failing Type Approval requirements may lose network access
By: Goodluck E.Adubazi, Abuja.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has intensified efforts to enforce compliance with device approval regulations, warning that SIM-enabled devices that fail to meet applicable requirements may be restricted from accessing mobile telecommunications networks in Nigeria.
The Commission, in a notice to manufacturers, importers, distributors, dealers and retailers, said it was strengthening monitoring and enforcement through technology-enabled verification to ensure that devices imported, sold and used in the country meet prescribed regulatory standards.
The NCC said the exercise was backed by the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the Type Approval Regulations 2024 and the Type Approval Business Rules 2024.
Under the compliance requirements, all device models intended for importation, assembly, distribution or sale in Nigeria must obtain the necessary NCC Type Approval, as provided under Section 132 of the Nigerian Communications Act and Regulation 4 of the Type Approval Regulations 2024.
The Commission also directed original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), original device manufacturers (ODMs), importers and other responsible suppliers to ensure that the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) information of individual devices is submitted through the approved compliance process for verification before distribution and sale.
Distributors, dealers and retailers were equally advised to verify that devices already in their stock comply with the applicable approval and verification requirements, working with their suppliers to address any outstanding issues.
The NCC further stressed that newly imported devices must satisfy the relevant Type Approval and device verification requirements before being introduced into the Nigerian market.
According to the Commission, the automated compliance process is designed to strengthen regulatory oversight of devices entering the country and improve its capacity to identify irregularities in their importation and distribution.
It added that it had engaged extensively with manufacturers, importers and relevant industry associations as part of its participatory regulatory approach.
Businesses that had not participated in the engagements or remained uncertain about the compliance process were urged to seek guidance promptly through the Commission’s approved onboarding and support channels.
The Commission said the initiative, being implemented in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service, would also support the reconciliation of import records, compliance with applicable duties and the promotion of fair competition.
It noted that the framework would help prevent businesses that fulfil their regulatory obligations from being disadvantaged by those that fail to comply.
The NCC warned that, upon full implementation, devices that do not meet the applicable requirements could be restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks in line with the approved enforcement framework.
Reaffirming its commitment to consumer protection and market sustainability, the Commission said it would continue working with industry stakeholders to facilitate compliance and ensure that communications devices sold in Nigeria meet the required standards.
For compliance guidance and onboarding assistance, stakeholders were directed to visit www.ncc.gov.ng/DeviceCheckerGuide or call 315.
The notice was signed by Nnenna Ukoha, Director of Public Affairs, Nigerian Communications Commission.
