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| National Identification Number (NIN) |
LAGOS/ABUJA – A persistent breakdown of the National Identification Number (NIN) verification portal has left millions of Nigerians unable to register new SIM cards, replace lost lines, or conduct essential banking transactions.
The outage, which has now stretched into several weeks, is causing significant financial losses for small businesses and deep frustration for households nationwide.
The Telecom Total Blackout
Major operators including MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile have confirmed that their hands are tied.
- The Symptom: Subscribers attempting SIM swaps or new registrations are being told services are suspended "until further notice."
- The Impact: Without an active SIM, many Nigerians are locked out of their bank accounts, unable to receive OTPs (One-Time Passwords) or business alerts.
- Personal Toll: One subscriber reported being unable to use his phone even through his own wedding on March 28, despite starting a SIM swap days earlier.
Contradictory Claims from NIMC
While telecom service centers across the country report a total system collapse, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has maintained that parts of its platform are operational. This inconsistency has fueled public anger, with many calling for an urgent intervention from the Minister of Communications and the NCC.
A Ripple Effect Across Sectors
The failure of the NIN backend isn't just a telecom issue. It has stalled:
- International Passport Processing: Verifications are currently impossible.
- Academic Registrations: External examination candidates are facing delays.
- Security Risks: Experts warn that delayed SIM replacements leave lost numbers "live," making them prime targets for identity theft and financial fraud.
