Susan Abayomi
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has stepped up efforts to curb the sale and use of counterfeit and unapproved mobile phones, urging Nigerians to verify devices before purchasing them.
The initiative is part of the commission’s strengthened Type Approval Compliance framework, which took effect on October 7, 2026, to protect consumers, improve telecommunications network performance and ensure that devices sold in Nigeria meet approved technical standards.
The NCC has introduced a Device Checker service that enables consumers to confirm whether their phones and other SIM-enabled devices have been approved for use on Nigerian mobile networks.
Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, the Director of Technical Standards and Network Integrity at the commission, Edoyemi Ogoh, explained that the framework would strengthen monitoring and enforcement of existing regulatory requirements.
According to the commission, the initiative followed consultations with manufacturers, importers, dealers, telecommunications operators, government agencies and other industry stakeholders.
The NCC is also working with the Nigeria Customs Service and other relevant organisations to ensure that newly imported devices undergo the required verification processes.
Consumers can check their devices by dialling *315# and following the instructions provided. Those checking a phone other than the one they are currently using may need its 15-digit International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number, which can be obtained by dialling *#06#.
The commission advised Nigerians to carry out the necessary checks before making payments, particularly when buying second-hand phones.
It explained that counterfeit phones imitate genuine products without the original manufacturers’ authorisation, while cloned devices use IMEI numbers assigned to other legitimate phones.
Devices found to be non-compliant with applicable requirements may be denied access to Nigerian mobile networks.
However, the NCC clarified that an unsuccessful verification result does not automatically mean a device is counterfeit. Buyers are advised to seek clarification from sellers and resolve any verification issues before completing their purchases.
The commission also reassured Nigerians that the Device Checker was designed to verify devices and support regulatory compliance, not to monitor personal communications.
According to the NCC, the system does not provide access to users’ calls, messages, photographs, contacts, financial information or other personal files stored on their devices.
The commission further cautioned consumers against fraudsters who may attempt to exploit the verification process, urging them to use only its official channels and never disclose one-time verification codes to sellers or other individuals.
The framework covers smartphones, feature phones, cellular tablets, eligible Internet of Things devices, SIM-enabled point-of-sale terminals, cellular laptops and other equipment designed to connect to Nigerian mobile networks.
The NCC noted that the requirement for type approval already exists under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the Nigerian Communications (Type Approval) Regulations 2024 and the Type Approval Business Rules 2024. The current initiative is intended to strengthen enforcement of those existing requirements.
The commission urged manufacturers, importers, dealers, telecommunications service providers and other stakeholders to support public awareness efforts and ensure compliance.
Consumers experiencing verification difficulties or network restrictions are advised to contact their service providers or seek assistance through the NCC’s official support channels.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to consumer protection, improved technical standards and a more reliable telecommunications environment in Nigeria.
