The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) said it would commence implementation of Type Approval Compliance for SIM-enabled communication devices in Nigeria. The exercise is said to be part of the measures towards safeguarding technical standards and network integrity of all phones and devices that use SIM cards. Speaking at a Press Conference on Tuesday in Abuja, Engr. Edoyemi Ogoh, the Commission’s Director, Technical Standards and Network Integrity, said that NCC is empowered under Section 132(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 to ensure that every communications device imported into the country meets all standards requirements.
Ogoh noted that NCC would collaborate with Nigeria Customs, major importers of communications devices and other regulatory agencies to monitor the movements of all SIM-enabled devices, aimed at ending the entry of substandard products that will undermine consumers’ profitability and public safety. He equally advised consumers to always use the code provided by NCC to check the standard of any device the intends to purchase at all times, to avoid falling victim.
“The Commission has also continued to work closely with critical stakeholders across the device value chain, including the Nigeria Customs Service, Original Equipment Manufacturers, importers and relevant market associations. This collaborative approach reflects our belief that effective regulation is best achieved through partnership, consultation and shared responsibility, consistent with the Commission’s firm belief in collaboration”.
He also stated that “This development comes at an important stage in the Commission’s ongoing implementation of enhanced Type Approval Compliance for SIM-enabled communications devices. As implementation has commenced, it is important that consumers, industry stakeholders and the wider public clearly understand the objectives of the initiative, their respective responsibilities and the benefits it delivers for Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
“The telecommunications sector has become one of the most critical pillars of Nigeria’s economic and social development. Virtually every aspect of our daily lives today depends on communications technology. From business operations and financial transactions to education, healthcare, public services and personal communications, millions of Nigerians rely on devices connected to telecommunications networks.
“The integrity of the telecommunications industry depends not only on network infrastructure but also on the quality, safety and compliance of the devices that access and are used on these networks. For this reason, Type Approval is not merely a regulatory requirement. It is a vital mechanism for protecting consumers, safeguarding network performance and preserving confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy.
“The Commission has a statutory responsibility to ensure that communications equipment deployed within Nigeria meets established standards. This obligation is reflected in the requirements governing the certification and approval of communications devices intended for use within the country. “Under Section 132(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, licensed service providers, facilities providers, equipment manufacturers and suppliers are required to obtain Type Approval from the Commission before communications equipment may be sold or used in Nigeria”, he added.
