The Nigerian Communications Commission has directed telecommunications operators across the country to unbar all lines that have been disconnected due to the noon linkage of the sim cards with NIN in the country.
The statement released on Monday by the Commission’s Director of Media and Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, noted that all recently blocked lines should be restored immediately.
The regulator, Nigeria’s top communications regulator, explained that the directive was important due to the hardships currently witnessed by the residents of the hills affected by the disconnection. The commission also explained that the short notice given to subscribers contributed to the recent directive.
In 2020, the Nigerian government initiated the SIM-NIN linkage in the country to enhance national security and enhance the database of SIM card users in the country. The deadlines, which have been extended on different occasions, had the ladies of July 31st, 2024, matching up with so many individuals in the country.
In response to the allegations that the current disconnections were to distort communication during the August 1 hunger protest in the country, the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria noted that the current decision has been taken for a long time to harmonize the SIM registration database in the country.
They further explained that the current steps were taken in order to ensure the integrity of the database. They explained that they are open to supporting government efforts to safeguard communication rights, data privacy, and security.
The current disconnect between Friday and Sunday in the county ad left different subscribers standing and besieging the offices of the network providers across the country.
Reacting to the disconnection, some customers who accused the network providers of disconnecting their sims unjustly observed the action would make the hunger protest in the country worst by adding to the frustration of the citizens.
