NCC Lists Five Device Types That Could Stop Working In Nigeria

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has rolled out a device verification system that could block unapproved phones and other communication equipment from connecting to local telecoms networks. The scheme took effect on October 7, 2026. The NCC says it will improve device identification, crack down on counterfeit handsets and reinforce the security of Nigeria's telecoms infrastructure.

Five categories covered

The framework applies to five broad categories of communication equipment. Smartphones that do not meet the commission's standards could face network restrictions. Basic mobile phones, mainly feature phones used for calls and text messages, are covered if they fall short of the applicable requirements. SIM-enabled tablets and laptops, such as iPads and laptops that rely on SIM cards for mobile data, may also be affected. Internet of Things (IoT) devices, including routers and similar equipment that communicate over the internet, fall within the framework. SIM-enabled point-of-sale (POS) devices used by businesses to process transactions could face restrictions if they do not meet the required standards.

The NCC noted that some phones brought into Nigeria carried technical defects that could interfere with calls. It also warned that faulty devices posed risks to public safety and national security. As of October 2, 2026, the commission had approved more than 2,000 phone models for use in the country.

Mamman: framework not entirely new

Usman Mamman, the NCC's director of licensing, told the BBC that the regulatory framework was not entirely new. He said the commission had long maintained rules governing the approval of telecoms devices. He urged Nigerians buying second-hand phones to confirm the verification status of any device before completing a purchase.

How to check and the 30-day window

Users can dial *315# free of charge to check their device status, visit the commission's website at ncc.gov.ng or call 622 for help. The NCC clarified that devices already connected to Nigerian networks before October 7, 2026, were automatically verified, meaning most existing users do not need to take further steps. Users whose devices have not been verified have 30 days to complete the process. After that, non-compliant phones could be blocked from local networks.

The primary responsibility for obtaining approvals lies with manufacturers, importers and sellers before devices reach the market. Consumers who find that a phone they have already bought lacks the required approval can return it to the seller and request a refund. The NCC advised those shopping for fairly used handsets to run a verification check before paying.

Separately, MTN Nigeria restored its airtime and data borrowing service after weeks of disruption linked to a regulatory dispute. Eligible customers can dial *303# to borrow airtime or data based on their approved credit limits. Airtel and Glo had resumed the service.

For consumers, the immediate step is to dial *315# before buying a fairly used phone or SIM-enabled device. For businesses using POS terminals, the verification status of the terminal matters under the new framework. Importers and sellers are expected to secure approval before devices reach the market.