The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is set to disconnect mobile phones that have not received its type approval from Nigerian telecommunications networks. Users across the country have already started receiving warning text messages about possible disconnection, according to a report by BusinessDay.
Device Management System Triggers Alerts
The alerts are linked to the NCC's planned Device Management System (DMS), which is designed to identify devices operating on Nigerian networks and restrict those that fail to meet the required technical standards. The system is an extension of existing SIM registration measures, introducing device-level monitoring to check whether handsets, rather than just their SIM cards, comply with prescribed technical requirements.
An NCC official, quoted by BusinessDay, said the exercise was not directed at any particular brand but was intended to ensure that devices connecting to Nigerian networks had received the necessary approval. The official stated: "Devices that are not type approved cannot work on the networks in the country."
Users of Popular Brands Receive Warnings
Several users have reported receiving warning messages, including owners of the Apple iPhone 17 Pro, Infinix Hot 40, Infinix Zero 20, Tecno Spark 50, Oukitel WP58 Pro 5G, and Google Pixel devices. One user reportedly received an alert for an Oukitel device purchased through Jumia, while another said an iPhone 17 Pro bought from Tesco in the United Kingdom was flagged after being brought to Nigeria.
The messages warn recipients that their devices have not been verified and could be disconnected after 30 cumulative days. Users are advised to contact their sellers or dial 315 for further assistance.
Registration Process for Affected Consumers
The NCC has sought to reassure consumers, saying it is preparing a registration process for people who legitimately acquired phones abroad or through private transactions. The official explained: "If you have a phone, for instance, that you feel was not type approved, maybe you travelled out of the country and bought a phone from there, there are a few registration processes that the person is supposed to go through for that phone to be registered on the network."
The commission said it would publish details of the procedure, including registration links and requirements for affected users. The official added: "The Commission in the coming days will roll out a procedure for whoever has bought a phone privately." The NCC also plans to hold media briefings in Lagos and Abuja to explain the enforcement framework before the system is fully deployed.
Impact on Importers, Retailers, and Consumers
No specific launch date has been announced, although the official said the DMS could become operational within the coming weeks, according to Punch reports. The policy could put pressure on importers and retailers to verify device approval status before selling phones. It may also encourage more consumers to purchase devices through authorised distribution channels.
However, the proposed registration process will be important for consumers who unknowingly bought unapproved phones from local retailers and need a clear route to compliance. The NCC's move comes as part of broader efforts to regulate the telecommunications landscape, following its recent grant of 46 Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) licenses to bolster competition in the sector.
