Operator solicits for ban on SIM activation to be lifted soon

Individuals, organizations, industry analysts and groups on the various telecommunications networks have been clamouring for a review of the over two months ban on activation of new Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards in the country by the Federal Government.

Evidence abound from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) data that some 7.6 million lines have become inactive within this period and over N10 billion lost by network operators.

The latest call is from 9mobile, which I also canvassing a review of the entire process.

The Chief Commercial Officer, 9mobile, Stjepan Udovicic, while speaking at a virtual meeting to unveil a new Internet growth initiative, lamented that the SIM policy has affected customers, both old and new.

Udovicic said “we hope the ban will not be for too long. We hope it will be lifted soon to improve subscriptions both on voice and data services.”

9mobile formally announced new offerings of an affordable and data service initiative with the introduction of its upgraded MiFi and Router offerings.

MiFi devices can be connected to a cellular network to provide Internet services for up to ten devices, while routers can be connected to a cellular network to provide Internet services for up to 30 devices.

Udovicic disclosed that the new offerings confirmed 9mobile`s commitment to boosting individuals and businesses with affordable data connectivity.

“We are committed to providing affordable offerings, especially as COVID-19 has altered the world of work. Nowadays, more people are working remotely as they need affordable data to deliver their tasks and stay connected online with colleagues and business associates. Our refreshed MiFi and Router offers will see our customers enjoying more for less.

“For instance, a customer gets a 20GB instant sign-up data bonus, and additional 15GB data every month for 12months, plus a free MiFi device at N36,000”.

“Also, customers will get a 30GB instant sign-up data bonus, and additional 20GB every month for 12months, plus a free Router device,” he said.

Udovicic explained that the MiFi and Router devices also come with other variant data offers. For MiFi`s, there are three more variants where customers can get a sign-up data bonus and additional data starting from N16,000.