Dr Aminu Maida NCC EVC
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reassured the public that its newly launched Device Checker Platform is designed strictly to verify the technical standards of mobile devices and does not monitor or access personal data stored on users’ phones.
Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice-Chairman of the NCC, clarified the platform’s functions on Thursday during a news conference held in Lagos.
Represented by the NCC Lagos Zonal Controller, Mr. Tunji Jimoh, Maida addressed public misgivings by emphasizing that the initiative is not a surveillance system.
“The initiative is not a surveillance tool; it does not access users’ messages, photographs, contacts, financial information, or other private content stored on their devices,” Maida stated.
“The purpose of the platform is strictly limited to device identification and regulatory compliance verification.”
The Device Checker Platform verifies the Type Approval status of all SIM-enabled hardware, including smartphones, routers, Internet of Things (IoT) units, and other connected devices.
The system aims to eliminate counterfeit, cloned, and non-compliant equipment from connecting to domestic telecommunications networks.
Adding to the technical perspective, Lagos Zonal Controller Tunji Jimoh noted that unapproved devices pose health hazards to consumers and erode network quality.
“Counterfeit devices can pose health concerns, which is why phones entering Nigerian telecommunications networks must be genuine and compliant with established standards,” Jimoh said.
To facilitate smooth operations across the telecom supply chain, the NCC has introduced a dedicated mobile application alongside its online portal:
Maida urged phone manufacturers, importers, distributors, and vendors to strictly observe the commission’s Type Approval and Device Verification Guide. Consumers seeking help or clarification are encouraged to contact the NCC via its toll-free helpline (315).
Addressing concerns regarding existing phone users and visitors entering the country, Mr. Kings Adeyemi, Assistant Director and Head of Technical Standards and Network Integrity at the NCC, outlined the operational guidelines:
Automatic Migration for Current Devices: All existing mobile phones currently active on Nigerian networks whether genuine, non-compliant, or cloned, have been automatically onboarded to the system. Active users do not need to perform any manual registration.
30-Day Window for Foreign Travelers: Visitors entering Nigeria with foreign SIM-enabled devices will receive an automated notification granting them 30 days of uninterrupted network access to complete online registration.
Broad Sector Coverage: The system applies to all SIM-enabled communication devices deployed across all commercial, industrial, and personal sectors in Nigeria. (NAN)
