House of Reps Calls for NCC Review of Phone Verification Rules

The House of Representatives has called for a review of the Nigerian Communications Commission's (NCC) implementation of mobile phone device verification requirements due to concerns that the policy may increase phone prices and lead to the rejection or blocking of legitimate used devices. This resolution followed a motion by Sani Wakili, who represents a Kano constituency.

The enhanced verification requirements took effect on October 7, 2026, and impose compliance obligations on newly imported devices, potentially increasing operating costs for importers and retailers. Lawmakers expressed worries that these costs could be passed on to consumers, making mobile phones less affordable for low-income Nigerians.

They also raised concerns about technical errors and database mismatches that could result in genuine phones being wrongly rejected. The House urged the NCC to simplify verification procedures and establish a fair process for used devices.

The Committees on Communications and Commerce were directed to engage with the NCC and report back within four weeks.