News
BREAKING: NCC Announces Final Date For NIN-SIM Linkage
NCC Sets September 14, 2024, Deadline for SIM-NIN Linkage
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has set a deadline of September 14, 2024, for all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to complete the mandatory verification and linkage of Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) with National Identity Numbers (NINs).
In a recent update, the NCC reported significant progress on the Federal Government’s 2020 policy, which aims to connect NINs with SIMs. To date, over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to NINs, achieving a 96 percent compliance rate, up from 69.7 percent in January 2024.
Reuben Muoka, Director of Public Affairs at the NCC, stressed the importance of completing this process. He noted that full linkage is essential for enhancing trust and security in Nigeria’s digital economy.
“Verifying all mobile users will boost confidence in digital transactions, reduce fraud and cybercrime risks, and encourage greater participation in e-commerce, digital banking, and mobile money services,” Muoka explained.
The NCC, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), has discovered troubling cases of individuals holding excessively high numbers of SIM cards, with some exceeding 100,000.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to tackling these issues by working with security agencies and stakeholders to prevent the sale of pre-registered SIMs. This effort aims to safeguard national security and ensure the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.
MNOs are required to complete the SIM-NIN verification and linkage by September 14, 2024. From September 15, 2024, all SIMs operating in Nigeria must be linked to a valid NIN.
The NCC advises individuals who have not yet linked their NINs with their SIMs or who have faced verification issues to visit their service providers or use approved self-service portals to update their details before the deadline.
Additionally, the NCC reminds the public that buying or selling pre-registered SIMs is illegal and punishable by imprisonment and fines. Citizens are encouraged to report such activities to the Commission’s toll-free line (622) or via its social media channels.
The NCC appreciates the public’s cooperation in strengthening Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.
Federal Government Refutes Age Restrictions for NECO and WAEC Exams
The Federal Government has dismissed rumors suggesting that age restrictions apply to the National Examination Council (NECO) and West African Examination Council (WAEC) exams.
Dr. Tanko Sununu, the Minister of State for Education, clarified this in Abuja on Friday, affirming that there are no age limits for taking these exams. He explained that the age restriction applies only to the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and university entry, which will start at 18 years beginning in 2025.
Sununu pointed out that the National Policy on Education specifies that children should start primary school at age six, spend six years there, and then proceed to three years each in junior and senior secondary schools, totaling 18 years.
His remarks came during a briefing for the 2024 World Literacy Day, themed “Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace.”
Sununu addressed the confusion, stating, “We have clarified this issue in various forums, but the misinformation persists. Neither the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, nor I have announced any age limit for WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB exams.”
He added, “Some individuals have misinterpreted our comments regarding UTME age restrictions and mistakenly applied them to WAEC and NECO. Our previous statements only pertained to university entry age, as outlined in the National Policy on Education.”
Sununu also highlighted that the policy supports teaching children in their local language or mother tongue until primary three, after which English is introduced. This approach, he noted, facilitates better communication and learning.
President Tinubu Pledges Bold Decisions for Nigeria’s Progress
President Bola Tinubu has affirmed his commitment to making the tough decisions needed for Nigeria’s progress. He acknowledged the challenge of achieving national consensus on various issues but underscored that such decisions are crucial for the country’s advancement.
Wrapping up his official visit to China, President Tinubu met with the Nigerian community and members of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDO China) at the China World Hotel. He described the trip as highly successful and beneficial.
During his visit, President Tinubu engaged in discussions with Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, and participated in the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). The focus was on boosting collaboration in areas such as infrastructure, trade, finance, energy, the green economy, and mining.
Addressing Nigerians in China, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of representing Nigeria positively and being exemplary citizens. He highlighted the need for discipline and dedication, drawing inspiration from China’s disciplined society.
The President encouraged Nigerians abroad to embrace their diversity, follow local laws, and project a positive image of their country. He stated:
“Nigeria is undergoing significant reforms, and we are making bold and unprecedented decisions. You might have heard recent news about fuel prices at home. But can we avoid these tough choices if we want to improve our infrastructure, like roads, electricity, and water supply? We aim to hand over a better future to our children, and that requires us to make hard decisions now.”
President Tinubu Wraps Up China Visit and Heads to London via Dubai
On Friday, September 6th, President Bola Tinubu concluded his official visit to China and is now en route to London, United Kingdom, with a stopover in Dubai.
Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, confirmed that the President will travel to the UK via Dubai.
During his visit, President Tinubu assured Nigerians in China that his administration is committed to good governance and aims to replicate China’s successes for the benefit of Nigeria. He made these remarks during a meeting with the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization in China (NIDO China) and the Nigerian community at the China World Hotel in Beijing.
The meeting marked President Tinubu’s final official engagement in China before his departure for London.
President Tinubu described his visit to China as “very good and successful.”
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