NCC Urged to Enforce Action Against Fake Phones in Nigeria

Telecommunications industry stakeholders have called on the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to strengthen enforcement against counterfeit and cloned mobile phones. They warn that the NCC's new device verification system, the Device Checker, which became operational on October 7, 2026, may have limited impact unless appropriate sanctions are imposed on importers, distributors, and dealers of non-compliant devices.

Stakeholders emphasize that the Device Checker should not only help consumers identify questionable devices but also trace their sources and hold businesses accountable. They express concerns that without effective enforcement, consumers risk purchasing fake phones, undermining confidence in Nigeria's digital economy.

The Device Checker allows consumers to verify mobile devices using their International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI). Stakeholders assert that the initiative's effectiveness relies on the NCC enforcing obligations from importation to retail sales.

Emmanuel Akinola Akindoyin, Managing Director of McKins Technology Limited, welcomed the Device Checker as a means to strengthen consumer protection and promote accountability among market players.