NCC warns non-compliant phones may be blocked from Nigerian networks
- The NCC says phones and SIM-enabled devices without its type approval may be blocked from telecom networks.
- Importers, dealers and retailers must verify device IMEI numbers before selling them.
- The commission is working with Customs to check imports and duty compliance.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has warned that mobile phones and other SIM-enabled devices that do not meet its approval and verification rules may be cut off from telecom networks in the country.
The commission said it is tightening monitoring of devices coming into Nigeria, working with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to check imports and confirm that duties are paid.
In a notice dated 19 October 2026, the NCC reminded manufacturers, importers, distributors, dealers and retailers of their obligations under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and the Type Approval Regulations 2024.
Every device model meant for import, assembly, distribution or sale in Nigeria must have NCC Type Approval, the commission said. It cited Section 132 of the 2003 Act and Regulation 4 of the 2024 regulations.
Manufacturers and importers must also submit the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number of each device through approved channels for checking before sale. The IMEI is the unique number that identifies a phone.
What it means for buyers and sellers
For ordinary Nigerians, the warning matters because a phone bought without approval could one day stop working on Nigerian mobile networks. The NCC said that once the system is fully in place, non-compliant devices "may be restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks."
Dealers and retailers are asked to go through the stock already in their shops and work with suppliers to fix any compliance gaps. New imports must also be cleared before they reach the market.
The commission said it is using automated verification to spot irregularities in how devices are imported and sold. It added that the process will help ensure businesses that follow the rules are not undercut by those that skip them.
The NCC said it has already met manufacturers, importers and industry associations, and urged businesses that are unsure of the steps to seek guidance through its onboarding and support channels.
What happens next
The NCC said the restrictions will apply "upon full implementation" of the enforcement framework. Until then, importers and sellers are expected to register their device models and submit IMEI details. Buyers who want to be sure can ask their dealer whether a phone model carries NCC type approval.
