The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has extended the deadline for registering SIM-enabled mobile phones and other communications devices on its Device Management System (DMS) to October 6, 2026, following concerns from industry stakeholders. The commission moved the deadline for onboarding existing devices in stock from September 7 to October 6, 2026, giving Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), importers, dealers, and vendors additional time to comply. After this date, devices that are not registered will be blocked from operating on Nigerian networks.
Extension of Onboarding Deadline
The NCC initially required stakeholders to upload the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of SIM-enabled devices currently in their inventory before the DMS becomes fully operational. The deadline was extended after some stakeholders reported difficulties completing the process on the NCC's web portal. In an email seen by TheCable, the NCC said some industry players were unable to complete registration because they did not have the required licences or certifications. The commission urged unlicensed OEMs, importers, dealers, and vendors to begin their licensing or regularisation processes without further delay.
The DMS is being introduced as part of efforts to tackle phone theft, counterfeiting, and the circulation of improperly registered devices in Nigeria. The extension is expected to give businesses more time to complete registration and upload the required IMEI numbers.
Stakeholders Raise Concerns Over Timeline
Despite the extension, members of the Association of Mobile Communication Device Technicians of Nigeria (AMCODET) and other stakeholders have reportedly called for a phased implementation of the policy. Industry players say the period available for completing the onboarding process remains too short, particularly for businesses that have yet to register or are dealing with large volumes of devices.
They also raised concerns about ambiguities surrounding some aspects of the DMS. One major issue is the absence of a clearly defined appeal process for devices whose IMEI numbers may be flagged because of legitimate technical problems. Stakeholders said software faults, repairs, or other technical glitches could potentially result in a legally acquired device being flagged, creating uncertainty for dealers and consumers.
Importers Worry About Rising Costs
Importers and other players in the supply chain have also expressed concerns about the possible financial implications of the new system. According to stakeholders, shipments already in transit could face additional requirements and costs once the DMS becomes operational. They warned that such expenses could eventually move through the supply chain and affect consumers. Questions have also been raised about the financial implications of training technicians, with stakeholders saying more clarity is needed on how the proposed training programme will work.
Can the System Handle Millions of Devices?
The reliability and capacity of the DMS have also emerged as concerns. Stakeholders reportedly experienced glitches during a demonstration of the system at an engagement with the commission. The NCC attributed the issue to an ongoing system update. The incident prompted questions about whether the platform would be able to cope with the volume of devices expected to be registered once mass onboarding begins.
While stakeholders acknowledged the potential benefits of the DMS, they urged the NCC to adopt a phased and carefully managed rollout. The commission has said it would consider the issues and recommendations raised during its stakeholder engagement. Nigerians now have until October 7, 2026, to register their SIM-enabled devices, after which non-compliant devices will be blocked.
