NCC Moves to Block Unapproved Phones as iPhone, Tecno, Infinix Users Get Alerts

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is preparing to disconnect mobile phones that do not have its type approval from Nigerian telecom networks. Users of iPhones, Infinix, Tecno, Oukitel and Google Pixel devices have already received warning text messages about possible disconnection.

The alerts are tied to the commission's planned Device Management System (DMS). The system will identify devices operating on Nigerian networks and restrict those that fail to meet required technical standards. The NCC says some smartphones enter Nigeria through unofficial channels without the regulatory checks needed before they can work on local networks.

What the NCC is saying

An NCC official, quoted by BusinessDay, said the exercise is not aimed at any particular brand. The goal is to ensure devices connecting to Nigerian networks have the necessary approval. The official said: "Devices that are not type approved cannot work on the networks in the country."

The DMS extends existing SIM registration measures by introducing device-level monitoring. It will let the NCC check whether handsets, not just SIM cards, meet prescribed technical requirements.

Devices flagged, 30-day warning

Several users have reported receiving warning messages. The devices mentioned include Apple iPhone 17 Pro, Infinix Hot 40, Infinix Zero 20, Tecno Spark 50, Oukitel WP58 Pro 5G and Google Pixel devices.

One user reportedly received an alert for an Oukitel device bought through Jumia. Another said an iPhone 17 Pro bought from Tesco in the United Kingdom was flagged after being brought to Nigeria. The messages warn recipients that their devices have not been verified and could be disconnected after 30 cumulative days. Affected users are advised to contact their sellers or dial 315.

Registration route promised

The NCC has moved to reassure consumers. It says it is preparing a registration process for people who legitimately acquired phones abroad or through private transactions. The official said: "If you have a phone, for instance, that you feel was not type approved, maybe you travelled out of the country and bought a phone from there, there are a few registration processes that the person is supposed to go through for that phone to be registered on the network."

The commission said it will publish details of the procedure, including registration links and requirements for affected users. The official added: "The Commission in the coming days will roll out a procedure for whoever has bought a phone privately."

The NCC also plans media briefings in Lagos and Abuja to explain the enforcement framework before the system is fully deployed. No specific launch date has been announced, although the official said the DMS could become operational within the coming weeks, according to Punch.

What it means for the market

The policy could pressure importers and retailers to verify device approval status before selling phones. It may also push more consumers to buy through authorised distribution channels. The promised registration process will matter for consumers who unknowingly bought unapproved phones from local retailers and need a clear route to compliance.

Earlier, the NCC announced it granted 46 Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) licences to boost competition in Nigerian telecoms. The commission said it is revising the operational regulatory framework for the new players to strengthen the MVNO framework, address operational challenges and support operators that offer mobile services without owning spectrum or deploying nationwide infrastructure.