NCC Urges Nigerians To Verify Phones Before Purchase

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has urged Nigerians to verify mobile devices before purchase to avoid counterfeit, cloned and unauthorised phones that may not comply with regulatory standards.

The commission said consumers could use its Device Checker Platform to confirm the type approval status of SIM-enabled devices by entering their International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers on its website.

The Kano Zonal Controller of the NCC, Engr. Maigana Gidado, made the call at a media briefing on the commission’s technical standards and network integrity initiatives in Kano yesterday.

Gidado said the platform was designed to protect consumers, strengthen compliance with type approval requirements and safeguard the integrity of communications devices connected to Nigerian networks.

He directed consumers to the Device Checker portal at www.ncc.gov.ng/devicechecker to verify devices before purchase.

The zonal controller said the commission had streamlined its licensing and regularisation process, enabling more device dealers in Kano State to obtain licences.

He added that the NCC had also sensitised importers and other industry stakeholders in Lagos and other parts of the country on type approval requirements and their obligations under the initiative.

According to him, the commission developed a user-friendly application that allows authorised stakeholders to scan device IMEI numbers and upload relevant information directly to the platform.

He said manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers could consult the Type Approval and Device Verification Guide on the commission’s website for information on their responsibilities.

Gidado, however, 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.

He urged consumers to patronise reputable and licensed dealers and take advantage of the commission’s online resources to make informed purchasing decisions.

The NCC also called on manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers to comply with its type approval requirements to promote fair competition and protect consumers.

Gidado said consumers could contact the commission through its toll-free 315 consumer support line for assistance with device verification and other consumer protection issues.

He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to strengthening network integrity and promoting a trusted communications environment in Nigeria.