The House of Representatives has urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to review the implementation of its mobile device verification framework amid concerns that the policy could increase the cost of mobile phones and negatively affect access to affordable devices.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Kano lawmaker, Sani Wakili, who called on the telecommunications regulator to reassess the framework in consultation with key stakeholders.
Lawmakers expressed concern that the verification requirements, which came into effect on October 7, 2026, may impose additional compliance burdens on importers and retailers of mobile devices. According to the House, the resulting costs could be transferred to consumers, making phones more expensive, especially for low-income Nigerians who rely on them for communication, education and business activities.
The device verification initiative operates through the Device Management System and the Central Equipment Identity Register, which authenticate mobile phones and other SIM-enabled devices using their International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers.
While acknowledging the NCC’s efforts to combat counterfeit, cloned and stolen devices, lawmakers warned that implementation challenges could create unintended consequences for legitimate users and businesses.
The House raised concerns over possible technical glitches, database inconsistencies and limitations within the verification system that may result in genuine devices being wrongly rejected or blocked. It noted that such issues could particularly affect Nigeria’s thriving second-hand phone market, where many consumers purchase more affordable devices.
According to the lawmakers, wrongful exclusion of legitimate used phones could create difficulties for traders and consumers who depend on the resale market for their livelihoods and access to affordable technology.
Consequently, the House urged the NCC to simplify verification procedures, reduce compliance costs and establish a fair, transparent and accessible process for verifying used and second-hand devices. The aim, lawmakers said, is to ensure that lawful devices are not unnecessarily rejected or restricted from network access.
To further examine the policy, the House directed its Committees on Communications and Commerce to engage with the NCC and relevant stakeholders and submit a report within four weeks. The Committee on Legislative Compliance was also mandated to monitor the implementation of the resolution.
Members stressed that mobile phones have become essential tools for banking, education, e-commerce and other digital services, making affordability and accessibility critical considerations in any regulatory framework.
The lawmakers emphasised that while efforts to improve device security and tackle counterfeit equipment are necessary, such measures should not impose undue hardship on consumers or legitimate businesses.
The House said the review would help determine whether the current framework effectively balances security objectives, consumer protection, regulatory compliance and affordability for Nigerians.
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