Susan Abayomi
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a device verification system to help Nigerians determine whether their mobile phones and other SIM-enabled devices meet regulatory requirements for use on the country’s telecommunications networks.
The initiative, known as the NCC Device Checker, became effective on October 7, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen regulatory compliance, protect telecommunications consumers and improve the security of mobile networks.
The commission has provided three channels through which consumers can verify their devices: dialling *315# on their mobile phones, visiting its official Device Checker portal or calling the toll-free number 315 for assistance.
The NCC has also highlighted 10 important things Nigerians should understand about the new verification system, particularly when purchasing mobile devices.
First, consumers are advised to understand the meaning of Type Approval. This is a regulatory requirement that ensures communication equipment meets approved technical standards before it can be imported, sold or used in Nigeria.
Second, Nigerians can access the Device Checker through the USSD code *315#, the commission’s official online portal or its toll-free assistance number.
Third, consumers are encouraged to verify the approval status of mobile phones before completing purchases, especially when buying from unfamiliar dealers or online vendors.
Fourth, phone owners should familiarise themselves with their International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers. The 15-digit identification number can be retrieved by dialling *#06# on a mobile phone and may be required during the verification process.
Fifth, the system covers more than smartphones. Other devices subject to the requirements include basic mobile phones, cellular tablets, SIM-enabled laptops, Internet of Things (IoT) devices and Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals.
Sixth, the commission has clarified that phones already connected to Nigerian telecommunications networks before October 7, 2026, were automatically verified. Consequently, their owners do not need to undertake another registration or verification exercise.
Seventh, the NCC has addressed concerns about personal privacy, explaining that the system does not grant the commission access to private information stored on mobile devices, including text messages, photographs, contacts and personal files.
Eighth, newly imported devices intended for commercial sale in Nigeria must satisfy the applicable Type Approval and verification requirements. Individuals bringing phones into the country for personal use are subject to a separate verification procedure.
Ninth, devices that fail to meet the commission’s regulatory requirements may be denied access to Nigerian telecommunications networks. Consumers are therefore advised to resolve verification concerns with sellers before making payments.
Tenth, Nigerians have been warned against verification-related scams. The commission advises consumers to use only its official verification channels and avoid disclosing one-time passwords or verification codes to sellers, callers or strangers.
The Device Checker forms part of the NCC’s broader efforts to enforce existing telecommunications regulations, tackle counterfeit and cloned devices, and ensure that communication equipment used in Nigeria meets the required standards.
The commission has reiterated that the initiative does not require Nigerians to re-register phones that were already in use before the October 7 commencement date.
