The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has outlined four key benefits of verifying mobile phones before purchase, while also listing five categories of devices that could stop working if they fail to meet regulatory standards. Engr. Edoyemi Ogoh, the commission's Director of Technical Standards and Network Integrity, disclosed these during an appearance on Arise News on Tuesday, October 21, 2026.
Four Benefits of Phone Verification
Ogoh explained that verifying a phone before purchase gives consumers greater confidence that the device is genuine and will operate as intended by its manufacturer. This assurance helps buyers avoid unexpected faults and enjoy reliable device performance.
According to the NCC director, buyers of verified devices are less likely to encounter unexpected problems associated with counterfeit or substandard phones. Additionally, verification helps determine whether network problems are linked to the handset or other factors affecting the network.
When consumers are confident that their phones are genuine, it becomes easier to investigate whether poor service quality is caused by the device or the network. However, Ogoh noted that verifying a phone does not guarantee that it will never develop a fault or experience network problems.
Five Types of Devices That Could Stop Working
The NCC's device verification framework covers five broad categories of equipment that could face restrictions if they fail to meet applicable approval and verification requirements:
- Smartphones: Mobile phones used for calls, internet access, and other digital services.
- Basic mobile phones: Feature phones mainly used for calls and text messages.
- SIM-enabled tablets and laptops: Devices that connect to mobile networks using SIM cards.
- Internet of Things (IoT) devices: Connected equipment that uses cellular networks.
- Point-of-sale (POS) terminals: Payment devices that use mobile networks to process transactions.
The requirements do not mean that every device in these categories will automatically stop working. Restrictions are intended for devices that fail to meet applicable regulatory and verification standards.
How to Check a Phone Before Buying
Nigerians can use the NCC's device verification system to check their phones before completing a purchase. The process involves the following steps:
- Get the IMEI number: Dial *#06# on the phone to display its 15-digit International Mobile Equipment Identity number.
- Use the verification code: Dial *315# and follow the prompts to check the device's status.
- Visit the online portal: Go to www.ncc.gov.ng/DeviceChecker and follow the instructions provided.
- Check before payment: Buyers of new and fairly used phones should verify a device before completing a transaction.
Related Policy on Subscriber Compensation
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the NCC introduced a policy requiring telecom operators to compensate customers affected by poor network quality. The directive, which took effect in April 2026, requires operators to provide automatic airtime or data rebates to eligible subscribers experiencing substandard services.
The policy covers major Nigerian telecom providers, including MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, Globacom, and 9mobile.
