By Abdullahi Jalalludeen
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a Device Checker Platform to curb the circulation of counterfeit, cloned and unauthorised communication devices in the country.
The Zonal Controller of the Commission, Engineer Maigana Gidado, disclosed this at a news conference at the NCC Zonal Office in Kano.
He said the platform would enable consumers and authorised stakeholders to verify the Type Approval status of SIM-enabled devices and ensure that they complied with established technical standards.
According to him, the initiative would promote accountability across the telecommunications device supply chain and help consumers make informed purchasing decisions.
The initiative is also aimed at strengthening regulatory compliance, protecting consumers and safeguarding the integrity of telecommunications networks.
Gidado said the commission had streamlined its licensing and regularisation processes, enabling a significant number of device dealers in Kano State to obtain the required licences.
He added that the NCC had conducted sensitisation engagements with importers and other industry stakeholders in Lagos and other parts of the country to improve awareness of Type Approval requirements and obligations under the new framework.
The controller explained that the commission had developed a user-friendly application through which authorised stakeholders could scan the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of devices and upload relevant information directly to the platform.
He urged consumers to verify devices before purchase through the commission’s website at www.ncc.gov.ng/devicechecker, using the device’s IMEI number.
He also advised manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers to consult the Type Approval and Device Verification Guide at www.ncc.gov.ng/DeviceCheckerGuide to familiarise themselves with the relevant regulatory requirements.
Gidado clarified that the Device Checker Platform was not a surveillance tool, stressing that it did not access users’ personal data, messages, photographs, contacts, financial information or other private content stored on their devices.
“The purpose is limited to device identification and regulatory compliance verification,” he said.
The NCC urged consumers to patronise reputable and licensed dealers, verify devices before purchase and make use of the commission’s online resources to avoid purchasing non-compliant products.
It also called on manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers to comply with Type Approval requirements to ensure that communication devices circulating in the Nigerian market met the prescribed technical standards.
The commission advised consumers seeking assistance or wishing to lodge complaints to contact its toll-free consumer line on 315.
The NCC reaffirmed its commitment to consumer protection, fair competition, network integrity and the development of a trusted telecommunications ecosystem in Nigeria.
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