We have achieved success in articulation of template for the activation of new SIMs linked with authenticated NINs — NCC
By Eyo Nsima
The Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta has disclosed that the Commission has achieved success in the articulation of a template for the activation of new SIMs linked with authenticated NINs.
In his keynote address, presented at the just-concluded Virtual 3rd Discourse series of the Advocacy Law Practice, held on Tuesday, April 29, 2021, he stated: “I am pleased to note that we have achieved very significant success in the articulation of a template for the activation of new SIMs linked with authenticated NINs, and that the activation of new SIMs will now be carried out across the country in earnest.
“This development further underscores the government’s commitment to ensure that all the pre-requisites for our citizens’ full, effective, and productive participation in the digital economy is guaranteed. I call on all stakeholders to support these efforts in the overall national interest for a robust citizens’ database that supports socio-economic, health, education, national security and other public interest aspirations of the country.”
He also disclosed that “In essence, Nigeria can only maximize the potentials of the 4th Industrial Revolution if we articulate effectively and forward-looking Policy Instruments to guide our emergence into the future digital landscape, ensure the ubiquitous presence, the seamless operation and the cost-effective availability of communications infrastructure which will power the digital aspirations of all sectors of the Nigerian economy and ensure that national competitiveness is guaranteed; and deploy effective regulatory instruments and harness the efforts of all critical Stakeholders so that we can derive the utmost benefits from the 4th Industrial revolution and not be reduced to digital laggards, spectators, or, merely a consumptive class.”
He further stated: “The Nigerian Communications Commission is keenly aware of the critical need to harness the contributions of all critical Stakeholders across all industry platforms and professional groups to ensure that Nigerians fully participate in the Fourth Industrial Revolution as drivers and innovators. We hope that we can continue to count on the support of all stakeholders in this quest. I thank you for your time and wish you successful deliberations.”
In a message obtained from its website, NCC added: “The Nigerian Communications Commission is the independent National Regulatory Authority for the telecommunications industry in Nigeria. The Commission is responsible for creating an enabling environment for competition among operators in the industry as well as ensuring the provision of qualitative and efficient telecommunications services throughout the country.
“Over the years NCC has earned a reputation as a foremost Telecom regulatory agency in Africa. The Commission is hoping to catalyze the use of ICT for different aspects of national development. The Commission has initiated several programs such as the State Accelerated Broadband Initiative (SABI) and Wire Nigeria Project (WIN) to help stimulate demand and accelerate the uptake of ICT tools and services necessary for the enthronement of a knowledge society in Nigeria. In order to achieve its mandate, the Commission has put in place the necessary licensing and regulatory framework for the supply of telecommunications services.”
