ALTON backs FG directive to bar subscribers’ lines for non-compliance with NIN-SIM linkage

• Urges subscribers to obtain, link  NIN to SIMs at any  designated centres

The Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has confirmed that their members have received formal directives from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to bar out-going calls on subscriber lines that are not in compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage Policy requirement that all Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) must be linked with a National Identification Number (NIN).

The directive, it said followed multiple extensions of the deadline, which have been granted by the Federal Government to allow subscribers complete the NIN-SIM linkage.

A statement signed Engr. Gbenga Adebayo Chairman ALTON and GbolahanAwonuga, Head, Operations, ALTON noted that their members are committed to complying with the instructions and call on telecommunication subscribers who have not obtained and/or linked a NIN to their SIMs, to do so at any of the designated centres.

“We remain committed to supporting the Federal Government of Nigeria and upholding the rights of citizens to communicate, to share information freely and responsibly, and to enjoy privacy and security regarding their data and their use of digital communications,” the statement added.