In a decisive move to address growing concerns over unauthorized National Identification Number (NIN) linkages to mobile phone SIM cards, President Bola Tinubu has established an inter-ministerial committee to investigate the issue. This directive was given during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held at the State House, Abuja, on Tuesday.
According to sources within the Presidency, Tinubu’s directive aims to uncover the extent of unauthorized NIN-SIM linkages allegedly carried out by telecommunications providers without the consent of subscribers. The committee tasked with the probe comprises key government officials, including the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu; the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda.
A source privy to the meeting disclosed that the President instructed the committee to examine the situation thoroughly and ensure the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs receives accurate data to support its mandate.
“It is an inter-ministerial committee; the President asked the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, the Minister of Interior, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, and the Minister of Education to investigate the matter and find a resolution,” the source revealed.
Another insider confirmed the development, stating, “The President is keen on resolving this issue swiftly. He has set up a small but highly competent committee to address the challenges surrounding unauthorized NIN-SIM linkages by telecom providers.”
Concerns Over Unauthorized Linkages
Recent reports have surfaced indicating that certain telecom companies linked customers’ NINs to their mobile SIM cards without obtaining proper consent. Many affected individuals have discovered their NINs linked to unfamiliar phone numbers or have noticed multiple numbers attached to their identification without their knowledge. This has raised significant concerns regarding privacy breaches, identity theft, and potential fraud.
Consumer advocacy groups and subscribers have called for immediate action, urging regulators to investigate how such unauthorized linkages occurred and to implement stricter data protection measures.
House of Representatives Launches Investigation
Amid public outcry, the House of Representatives initiated its own investigation into the matter on Wednesday. This followed a motion co-sponsored by lawmakers Rep. Patrick Umoh and Professor Julius Ihonvbere during plenary.
Umoh expressed deep concern over the security risks posed by the unauthorized linkage of NINs to SIM cards. He highlighted the potential for identity theft, financial fraud, and cybercrime, stating that such practices directly violate the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, and the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation, 2019.
“This action is a clear violation of data protection laws, which guarantee the right to privacy and safeguard personal data. Unauthorized NIN-SIM linkages expose citizens to serious security risks and criminal implications,” Umoh emphasized.
The lawmaker further lamented that innocent Nigerians have suffered reputational damage, harassment, and legal challenges due to wrongful data linkages. He stressed that immediate action is necessary to protect the rights and privacy of citizens.
Regulatory Response and Government Directives
Following the debate in the House, lawmakers directed the Committees on Communications and Interior to conduct a thorough investigation and present their findings within four weeks. Additionally, the House urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to probe telecom operators involved in unauthorized NIN-SIM linkages and take appropriate actions against any companies found culpable.
As the controversy unfolds, the Nigerian government is under increasing pressure to enhance data security frameworks and enforce strict compliance among telecom service providers. The outcome of the investigations is expected to set a precedent for digital identity protection and consumer rights in the country.
Tuesday’s FEC meeting, during which the directive was issued, marked the second consecutive day of intense deliberations, with council members reviewing over 100 policy memos.
With both the executive and legislative arms of government now involved, Nigerians await decisive action to curb unauthorized data linkages and ensure better consumer protection in the telecommunications sector.
