NCC urges manufacturers, dealers in SIM-enabled devices to comply with type approval requirements

*The Nigerian Communications Commission emphasises this reminder regulatory directive is meant to ensure that SIM-enabled mobile devices being imported, sold, and used by telecoms consumers meet applicable type approval and device verification standards in the West African country

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

Sequel to its recent introduction of Type Approval and Device Checker system, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) restated its commitment to strengthening the monitoring, enforcement of the existing requirements via technology-enabled verification.

The NCC noted the regulatory directive is meant to ensure that mobile devices being imported, sold, and used in the country meet applicable standards.

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Mrs. Nnenna Ukoha, Director of Public Affairs, Monday, October 19, 2026, stated the Commission, said further to its earlier announcement on strengthening Type Approval compliance for SIM-enabled devices in Nigeria, reminded Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Original Device Manufacturers (ODMs), importers, distributors, dealers and retailers of their statutory and regulatory obligations under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the Type Approval Regulations 2024 and the Type Approval Business Rules 2024.

Why key reminders to all industry stakeholders?

The NCC emphasised that all industry stakeholders involved in the manufacture, importation, supply, and sale of SIM-enabled devices, are therefore, reminded of the following compliance requirements:

Type Approval: All device models intended for importation, assembly and distribution, or sale in Nigeria must have obtained the required NCC Type Approval.

This requirement is as outlined in Section 132 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and Regulation 4 in the Type Approval Regulations 2024.

Device Verification: OEMs, ODMs, importers and other responsible suppliers must 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.

Existing Stock: Distributors, dealers and retailers should confirm that devices already held in stock meet the applicable Type Approval and device verification requirements, working with their suppliers to resolve any outstanding compliance issues.

New Imports: Devices brought into Nigeria must comply with the applicable Type Approval and device verification requirements before being placed on the market.

The statement also noted the Commission, as part of its participatory regulatory approach, had undertaken extensive engagements with OEMs, ODMs, importers, and relevant industry associations.

Benefits of automated Type Approval Compliance

The Director of Public Affairs of NCC further stated: “Businesses that have not participated in these engagements, or are uncertain about the steps required for compliance are encouraged to seek guidance promptly through the Commission’s approved onboarding and support channels.”

The telecoms sector regulatory Commission further said the automated Type Approval Compliance process would strengthen the NCC’s oversight of devices entering the Nigerian market.

This will improve the Commission’s ability to identify potential irregularities in their importation and distribution, the statement noted.

Enhancing collaboration with Nigeria Customs Service

Leveraging its existing collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the NCC said the process also, would support the reconciliation of import records, compliance with applicable duties, and fair competition by ensuring that businesses which meet their obligations are not disadvantaged by those that do not.

The Commission disclosed that upon full implementation, devices that fail to meet the applicable requirements might be restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile telecoms networks, in accordance with the  approved regulatory enforcement framework.

Mrs. Ukoha said: “The Commission remains committed to working with all stakeholders to facilitate compliance, protect consumers and promote a fair and sustainable market for communications devices in Nigeria.”

For industry compliance guidance and onboarding assistance, consumers and other telecoms stakeholders are advised to visit: www.ncc.gov.ng/DeviceCheckerGuide, or call 315 for assistance.