Nigerian Communications Commission has reminded manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers of SIM enabled devices of statutory obligations on Type Approval compliance.
In notice issued on October 19, 2026 by Director Public Affairs Nnenna Ukoha, Commission said it is further to earlier announcement on strengthening Type Approval compliance for SIM enabled devices in Nigeria.
Commission reminded Original Equipment Manufacturers, Original Device Manufacturers, importers, distributors, dealers and retailers of obligations under Nigerian Communications Act 2003, Type Approval Regulations 2024 and Type Approval Business Rules 2024.
It said it is strengthening monitoring and enforcement of existing requirements through technology enabled verification to ensure devices imported, sold and used in Nigeria meet applicable standards.
NCC listed compliance requirements to include Type Approval for all device models intended for importation, assembly and distribution or sale in Nigeria as outlined in Section 132 of Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and Regulation 4 in Type Approval Regulations 2024.
Other requirements include device verification where OEMs, ODMs, importers and other responsible suppliers must ensure International Mobile Equipment Identity information of individual devices is submitted through approved compliance process for verification before sale and distribution.
On existing stock, distributors, dealers and retailers should confirm that devices already held in stock meet applicable Type Approval and device verification requirements, working with suppliers to resolve outstanding compliance issues.
On new imports, devices brought into Nigeria must comply with applicable Type Approval and device verification requirements before being placed on market.
Commission said as part of participatory regulatory approach, it has undertaken extensive engagements with OEMs, ODMs, importers and relevant industry associations. It encouraged businesses that have not participated or are uncertain about steps required for compliance to seek guidance promptly through approved onboarding and support channels.
It said automated Type Approval compliance process will strengthen oversight of devices entering Nigerian market and improve ability to identify potential irregularities in importation and distribution.
It added that in collaboration with Nigeria Customs Service, process will also support reconciliation of import records, compliance with applicable duties and fair competition by ensuring businesses which meet obligations are not disadvantaged by those which do not.
Commission said upon full implementation, devices that fail to meet applicable requirements may be restricted from accessing Nigerian mobile telecommunications networks in accordance with approved enforcement framework.
It said it remains committed to working with stakeholders to facilitate compliance, protect consumers and promote fair and sustainable market for communications devices in Nigeria.
