NCC suggests 14-day warning before SIM deactivation
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has proposed new rules requiring telecom operators to give subscribers at least 14 days’ notice before deactivating SIM cards due to inactivity or post-paid churn. The recommendations are detailed in a consultation paper dated February 26, 2026 and published on the commission’s website. The proposal aims to enhance transparency and reduce fraud related to recycled or swapped numbers. Stakeholders are invited to submit their comments by March 20, 2026.
TLDR
- NCC wants telecom operators to notify subscribers at least 14 days before SIM deactivation.
- The consultation paper is dated February 26, 2026 and comments are due by March 20, 2026.
- Both prepaid and post-paid subscribers would receive notifications through alternative lines or email.
- Operators must submit churn data to the Telecoms Identity Risks Management System within seven days of completion.
- The proposal is part of a broader regulatory review to prevent fraud linked to recycled, swapped, and barred mobile numbers.
