By Major distributors, dealers and retailers of mobile devices may discard from their warehouses and stores such devices that do not meet the type approval compliance for SIM-enabled devices in Nigeria according to a new directive from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
A statement from the Director, Public Affairs Nigerian Communications Commission, Nnenna Ukoha, stated that the NCC ordered distributors, dealers and retailers to confirm that devices already held in stock meet the applicable Type Approval and device verification requirements.
The statement further noted that they must work with their suppliers to resolve any outstanding compliance issues adding that all stakeholders involved in the manufacture, importation, supply and sale of SIM-enabled devices must follow compliance requirements.
“All device models intended for importation, assembly and distribution or sale in Nigeria must have obtained the required NCC Type Approval. This requirement is as outlined in Section 132 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and Regulation 4 in the Type Approval Regulations 2024”, the NCC noted.
According to the NCC, OEMs, ODMs, importers and other responsible suppliers must ensure that the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) information of individual devices is submitted through the approved compliance process for verification before sale and distribution.,
“Devices brought into Nigeria must comply with the applicable Type Approval and device verification requirements before being placed on the market”, said the statement.
The Commission disclosed that as part of its participatory regulatory approach, it has undertaken extensive engagements with OEMs, ODMs, importers, and relevant industry associations adding that businesses that have not participated in these engagements or are uncertain about the steps required for compliance are encouraged to seek guidance promptly through the Commission’s approved onboarding and support channels.
It further explained that automated Type Approval Compliance process will strengthen the Commission’s oversight of devices entering the Nigerian market and improve its ability to identify potential irregularities in their importation and distribution.
“In collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service, the process will also support the reconciliation of import records, compliance with applicable duties, and fair competition by ensuring that businesses which meet their obligations are not disadvantaged by those which do not”, said the Commission.
The NCC warned that upon full implementation, devices that fail to meet the applicable requirements may be restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks, in accordance with the approved enforcement framework.
