The Nigerian Communications Commission has directed telecommunication companies to extend the disconnection of telephone lines not linked to National Identification Numbers from 15 April 2024, to 31 July 2024.
A reliable source within the telecommunication sector disclosed this information to Sunday PUNCH on Saturday.
This decision communicated via a letter to telcos came after a careful consideration of various challenges and requests for extensions.
The source said, “So, this particular extension from 15th April to 31st July is for those who have four SIMs linked to just one phone line”.
The disconnection process, which began in February, was rolled out in three phases. The first occurred on 28 February 2024, followed by the second phase on Friday, 29 March 2024.
Originally scheduled for 15 April 2024, the third phase has now been rescheduled to commence on 31 July 2024.
During the initial deadline on 28 February 2024, the industry regulator said about 40 million lines not linked to NINs were barred.
The source said while the exact number of lines affected by Friday’s deadline remains unclear, telecom companies are expected to proceed with disconnecting lines not linked with NINs.
Telecom operators are expected to prioritize the verification of existing subscribers over new ones during this extended period.
