Reps Call for 18-Month SIM Reallocation Period in Nigeria

On Tuesday, the Nigerian House of Representatives passed a motion urging the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to extend the valid period for reallocating inactive SIM cards from six months to 18 months. This motion, sponsored by Hon. Billi Osawaru, addresses growing concerns over identity theft and fraud linked to recycled phone numbers.

The lawmakers highlighted the need for a six-month public notification window before reallocating inactive SIM cards, which should be published in national newspapers and communicated to security agencies, including the police. The proposed framework aims to enhance transparency and reduce cases of innocent Nigerians being arrested or harassed due to phone numbers reassigned to others.

The House emphasized the importance of balancing industry efficiency with the protection of citizens' data rights in line with the Data Protection Act of 2023. The NCC's regulatory powers under the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003 were referenced, particularly regarding the management of inactive SIM cards.