The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a Device Checker platform to strengthen the fight against fake, cloned and unauthorised mobile phones in Nigeria.
The telecommunications regulator said the initiative would improve compliance with its Type Approval requirements, protect consumers and ensure that devices connected to Nigerian networks meet the required standards.
The Director and Zonal Controller of the NCC’s Lagos Zonal Office, Mr Tunji Jimoh, said the commission was stepping up efforts to verify the approval status of SIM-enabled devices and address the circulation of non-compliant and counterfeit phones.
He disclosed that the NCC had held awareness meetings with importers and other industry stakeholders in Lagos and other parts of the country to explain Type Approval requirements and the responsibilities attached to device verification.
According to Jimoh, these engagements have helped strengthen accountability across the mobile device supply chain and improve compliance with regulatory standards.
To make the process easier, he said the commission had developed a user-friendly Device Checker application that allows authorised stakeholders to scan device International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers and upload the information directly to the platform.
The system is expected to make device verification faster and simplify compliance for businesses involved in importing, distributing and selling mobile phones.
NCC says platform does not access personal data
Jimoh was quick to address possible privacy concerns, stressing that the Device Checker platform was not a surveillance tool.
He explained that the application does not access users’ personal information, messages, photographs, contacts, financial details or other private content stored on their phones.
Instead, its function is strictly limited to identifying devices and checking whether they meet the commission’s regulatory requirements.
The NCC urged consumers to check the status of mobile phones before buying them and to purchase devices only from reputable and licensed dealers.
It also advised manufacturers, importers, distributors and retailers to familiarise themselves with the Type Approval and Device Verification Guide and ensure that their products meet the commission’s standards.
Jimoh encouraged consumers who need further information, assistance or wish to lodge complaints to contact the NCC through its 315 toll-free consumer line.
He said the commission remained committed to protecting telecommunications consumers and ensuring that only approved and compliant devices are used on Nigerian networks.
