NCC warns device importers, dealers of network ban over type approval breaches
Orisemeke Benjamin
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has warned manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers of SIM-enabled devices that products failing type approval and verification requirements risk being barred from Nigerian mobile networks.
In a notice to the industry, the Commission said it was stepping up monitoring and enforcement of existing rules “through technology-enabled verification” to ensure devices imported, sold and used in the country meet applicable standards. It reminded Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Original Device Manufacturers (ODMs), importers, distributors, dealers and retailers of their obligations under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the Type Approval Regulations 2024 and the Type Approval Business Rules 2024.
Under Section 132 of the Act and Regulation 4 of the 2024 Regulations, every device model meant for importation, assembly, distribution or sale in Nigeria must first obtain NCC Type Approval.
The NCC also directed OEMs, ODMs, importers and other responsible suppliers to submit the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) details of individual devices through the approved compliance process before sale and distribution.
Distributors, dealers and retailers were told to confirm that stock already in their possession meets the requirements, working with suppliers to resolve outstanding issues. New imports must comply before being placed on the market.
The Commission said the automated compliance process would strengthen its oversight of devices entering the market and improve its ability to identify potential irregularities in importation and distribution.
Working with the Nigeria Customs Service, the process will also support reconciliation of import records and compliance with applicable duties. The NCC said it would promote fair competition by ensuring “businesses which meet their obligations are not disadvantaged by those which do not.”
On enforcement, the Commission said that upon full implementation, non-compliant devices “may be restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks,” in line with the approved enforcement framework.
Describing its approach as a “participatory regulatory approach,” the NCC said it had held extensive engagements with OEMs, ODMs, importers and industry associations. It urged businesses that had not taken part, or were unsure of the compliance steps, to seek guidance promptly through its onboarding and support channels.
The Commission said it remained committed to working with stakeholders “to facilitate compliance, protect consumers and promote a fair and sustainable market for communications devices in Nigeria.”
