Jonas Ezieke Abuja
The House of Representatives has urged the Nigeria Communications Commission NCC to review the implementation of Mobile Phone Device Verification Requirements.
This followed the adoption of a motion moved by Hon Sanni Adamu Wakili on the matter on the floor of the House at plenary on Thursday.
Debating the motion, Wakili noted that the Nigerian Communications Commission NCC is strengthening the enforcement of Type Approval and Device Verification Requirements for mobile phones and other SIM-enabler devices through the Device Management System DMS and the Central Equipment Identity Register CEIR.
He further noted that the enhanced verification framework, effective October 7, 2026, imposes compliance requirements on newly imported devices and may increase compliance costs for importers and retailers with consequential increases in mobile phones prices.
The lawmaker expressed more worries noting that technical errors, database mismatches or limitations in th NCC’s scanning and verification may result in legitimately used and second-hand mobile phones being rejected or blocked, thereby creating difficulties for lawful users and businesses
Furthermore, the cost and complexity of compliance may burden small-scale importers and retailers, disrupt legitimate trade and deny low-income and less privileged Nigerians access to affordable mobile phones for communication, education and business.
The House he said recognizes the legitimate objectives of the NCC in combating counterfeit, cloned and stolen devices while safeguarding legitimate businesses and ensuring affordable access to mobile phones.
Consequently, the House, presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu with a voice vote adopted the motion.
He urged the NCC to establish an accessible verification process for used second-hand mobile phones to prevent legitimate devices from being unfairly rejected or blocked and to protect access to affordable mobile phones.
The presiding officer also mandated the House Committees on Communications and Commerce to engage the Nigeria Communications Commission NCC and relevant stakeholders on the implementation of the framework and report within four weeks for further action.
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