NCC Strengthens Enforcement on Type Approval for SIM-Enabled Devices

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reminded manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers of SIM-enabled devices of their obligation to comply with Type Approval regulations in Nigeria.

In a notice issued on October 19, 2026, and signed by Nnenna Ukoha
Director, Public Affairs, Nigerian Communications Commission, the Commission said the reminder was further to its earlier announcement on strengthening Type Approval compliance, in line with the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the Type Approval Regulations 2024 and the Type Approval Business Rules 2024.

According to the Commission, it is strengthening monitoring and enforcement of existing requirements through technology-enabled verification to ensure devices imported, sold and used in Nigeria meet applicable standards.

The NCC listed the compliance requirements as follows:

Type Approval: All device models intended for importation, assembly, distribution or sale in Nigeria must obtain the required NCC Type Approval as stipulated in Section 132 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and Regulation 4 of the Type Approval Regulations 2024.

Device Verification: Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Original Device Manufacturers (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 in stock meet the applicable Type Approval and verification requirements, working with suppliers to resolve outstanding compliance issues.

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

The Commission said it has undertaken extensive engagements with OEMs, ODMs, importers and relevant industry associations as part of its participatory regulatory approach, and urged businesses that have not participated or are uncertain about compliance steps to seek guidance promptly through approved onboarding and support channels.

It added that the automated Type Approval compliance process will strengthen oversight of devices entering the Nigerian market and improve its ability to identify irregularities in importation and distribution.

In collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service, the process will also support reconciliation of import records, compliance with applicable duties and fair competition by ensuring that compliant businesses are not disadvantaged.

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

It reaffirmed its commitment to working with 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, stakeholders are to visit https://www.ncc.gov.ng/DeviceCheckerGuide or call 315.