NIN-SIM linkage: NATCOMS requests 2-week extension
The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has formally requested the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to extend the deadline for the NIN-SIM linkage from September 14 to September 30, 2024.
The appeal comes in light of challenges encountered with the National Identity Management Commission’s (NIMC) portal.
The National President of NATCOMS, Mr. Deolu Ogunbanjo, highlighted the pressing need for the extension due to persistent issues with the NIMC portal’s capacity. The NCC had initially set the deadline to ensure that all mobile users link their SIM cards to their National Identification Number (NIN) by September 14. This initiative aims to bolster digital security and combat fraud and cybercrime.
Ogunbanjo pointed out that many users and telecom operators have faced considerable difficulties due to the NIMC portal’s congestion and slow processing speeds. He explained, “During my visits to Airtel and MTN customer centers, it was evident that the portal struggled under the volume of data being uploaded. The congestion and slow upload speeds were frustrating and impeded the process.”
He further explained that extending the deadline would provide NIMC with the necessary time to upgrade its portal infrastructure, thus alleviating the current bottlenecks and ensuring a smoother process for all stakeholders involved.
On-site experiences varied among different customer centers. Mrs. Zainab Olajide, a food vendor, reported a generally smooth process at her center but criticized the demand for an additional N1,000 fee for service, which she felt was exploitative. She noted that despite arriving early, the long wait and additional charges posed significant inconveniences.
Similarly, Mr. Clement Umeadi expressed frustration over the extortion practices he encountered at his customer center in Alagbado, where he was compelled to pay N2,000 to unblock his SIM lines. He suggested that the NIN-SIM linkage should be a continuous process without fixed deadlines to prevent such issues.
In contrast, accountant Josh Manuel, who visited a center in Opebi, praised the orderly and professional handling of the registration process. He reported that, despite the high volume of people, the process was efficiently managed without any additional charges.
At another center in Ogba, teacher Mrs. Olushola Oke decried the slow pace of uploads, which she attributed to system inefficiencies. She had to make multiple visits before successfully unblocking her line and supported the call for an extension to accommodate more users.
Mr. Quadri Adegoke, an agent at the Ogba customer center, echoed concerns about the NIMC portal’s performance, suggesting that ongoing construction or high traffic on the website might have exacerbated the issues.
The request for an extension, subscribers noted, reflects various challenges with the current system and hoped that additional time will enable a more efficient and equitable process for all involved.
