By Daniel Tyokua
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has threatened manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers of SIM-enabled devices to comply with its type approval and device verification requirements.
The commission said erring dealers would be restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha, reminded Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Original Device Manufacturers (ODMs), importers, distributors, dealers and retailers of their statutory obligations under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the Type Approval Regulations 2024 and the Type Approval Business Rules 2024.
It said ithe initiative is aimed at strengthening the monitoring and enforcement of existing regulations through technology-enabled verification to ensure that devices imported, sold and used in Nigeria meet applicable standards.
According to the Commission, all device models intended for importation, assembly, distribution or sale in Nigeria must obtain the required NCC Type Approval, as stipulated in Section 132 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and Regulation 4 of the Type Approval Regulations 2024.
It also directed manufacturers and responsible suppliers to ensure that the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) information of individual devices is submitted through the approved compliance process for verification before sale and distribution.
The NCC urged dealers and retailers to review devices already in their stock to confirm compliance with the applicable approval and verification requirements, while working with suppliers to resolve any outstanding issues.
It further stressed that newly imported devices must satisfy the relevant requirements before being introduced into the Nigerian market.
The Commission said the automated Type Approval Compliance process would strengthen oversight of devices entering the country and improve its capacity to identify irregularities in their importation and distribution.
The initiative will be implemented in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service to support the reconciliation of import records, compliance with applicable duties and fair competition among businesses operating in the communications device market, NCC added.
