Telecom subscribers express growing frustration as major telcos, including MTN, Airtel, and Globacom, implement network barring despite the National Identification Number (NIN)-SIM linkage.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) mandated telcos to bar lines without verified NINs by February 28, 2024.
Subscribers, in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria, reported dissatisfaction with the disconnection, some even experiencing it before the deadline.
The issue was particularly prominent at MTN outlets. Complaints ranged from abrupt disconnection to inadequate notice, with some subscribers insisting they had successfully linked their NINs as required by the NCC.
Various telcos’ customer service centers in Lagos witnessed displeased customers, and MTN seemed to bear the brunt of subscriber discontent. Some subscribers received disconnection notices despite completing the NIN-SIM linkage. Even those who had linked their NINs in 2020 expressed dismay at being barred.
In response to these concerns, Funsho Aina, the Senior Manager, External Relations at MTN, attributed most disconnections to missing data on the lines.
Aina clarified that discrepancies between the data filed for NIN and SIM registration could result in the disconnection.
To rectify discrepancies and facilitate reconnection, MTN suggested creating a Virtual NIN (VNIN) through their portal or dialing a specific code. However, this process could only address cases where data inconsistencies were the primary issue.
Aina acknowledged that the larger subscriber base of MTN might contribute to a higher number of reported issues compared to other telcos.
Despite operational challenges, telecom companies aim to resolve discrepancies, ensuring a smoother implementation of regulatory directives while enhancing overall network security.
