NCC to Block Unapproved Phones: 30-Day Warning

Phone users across Nigeria receive disconnection alerts as the NCC introduces stricter device verification measures.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is moving to block unapproved phones from operating on Nigerian telecommunications networks, following reports that smartphone users have received warnings of possible disconnection after 30 cumulative days.

The development has raised concerns among Nigerians, particularly those using imported smartphones or devices purchased from independent retailers.

According to reports published by BusinessDay and The Guardian, users of iPhones, Tecno, Infinix, Oukitel and Google Pixel devices are among those who have received verification alerts.

However, the NCC says the enforcement is not targeted at any particular smartphone brand.

Why NCC Plans to Block Unapproved Phones

The NCC’s decision is part of its Device Management System (DMS), an initiative designed to ensure that mobile phones and other SIM-enabled devices meet Nigeria’s technical and regulatory standards.

Under Section 132(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, telecommunications equipment must meet the commission’s type-approval requirements before being sold or used in Nigeria.

The DMS uses International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers to identify devices connecting to Nigerian mobile networks.

According to the commission, the system will help detect non-compliant devices, identify illegally imported phones, improve network performance and support efforts to block stolen devices.

The regulator has also clarified that the system does not provide access to users’ private communications or personal phone content.

Nigerians Receive 30-Day Disconnection Warnings

Reports indicate that affected phone users have received messages warning that devices which remain unverified could be disconnected after 30 cumulative days.

Some affected consumers reportedly purchased their smartphones from established retailers, while others imported their devices from countries including the United Kingdom.

The development has prompted questions about whether retailers adequately verified the phones before selling them.

Receiving a warning does not necessarily mean a smartphone is counterfeit. It may indicate that the device has not been successfully verified under the new regulatory system.

How to Check if Your Phone Is NCC Approved

Nigerians concerned about their phone’s approval status can take steps to verify their devices.

Recent media reports indicate that subscribers can dial *315# and select option 1, labelled “Check this device,” to view their device verification status.

Consumers can also consult the NCC’s official online database of approved handsets to check whether their phone model has received type approval.

Anyone who receives a warning is advised to contact the seller and retain purchase records while awaiting further guidance.

The NCC is also preparing a registration process for people who legitimately purchased phones abroad or through private transactions.

Full details of that procedure have not yet been publicly announced.

Will All Unapproved Phones Be Disconnected?

Although the NCC intends to restrict devices that fail to meet regulatory requirements, the warning messages do not mean that all affected phones have already been disconnected.

The regulator is expected to provide further clarification on registration procedures and enforcement arrangements before full implementation.

The policy could have significant implications for Nigeria’s smartphone market, particularly independent importers and dealers who sell devices sourced from overseas.

For consumers, the coming weeks will be important as the commission explains how legitimate phone owners can resolve verification problems and avoid potential network restrictions.

The NCC maintains that the initiative is intended to improve consumer protection, strengthen network security and ensure that devices operating in Nigeria meet approved standards.