The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, has urged Nigerians to verify the status of mobile devices before purchasing them to guard against counterfeit, cloned and unauthorised devices.
The Commission said its Device Checker Platform was designed to strengthen compliance with technical standards, protect consumers and enhance the integrity of communications devices connected to Nigerian networks.
The Zonal Controller of the NCC, who spoke at a news conference at the Commission’s zonal office on Thursday, said the initiative would help address the circulation of non-compliant devices in the market.
“As Nigeria’s digital economy continues to expand, it is important that devices connected to our networks comply with established technical and regulatory standards,” the Controller said.
The Controller disclosed that the Commission had made significant progress in implementing the platform through licensing, regularisation and stakeholder sensitisation initiatives.
According to the Controller, the NCC had streamlined its licensing and regularisation process, enabling a significant number of device dealers in Kano State to obtain licences.
The Commission also conducted sensitisation engagements with importers and other industry stakeholders in Lagos and other parts of the country to deepen awareness of Type Approval requirements and obligations under the Device Checker framework.
To simplify compliance, the NCC developed a Device Checker application that allows authorised stakeholders to scan the International Mobile Equipment Identity, IMEI, numbers of devices and upload information directly to the platform.
The Controller said the application was designed to improve efficiency and make compliance easier for stakeholders.
The Commission also provided online resources to help consumers and industry participants understand the device verification process.
Consumers can check the status of their devices through the NCC’s Device Checker portal by entering the device’s IMEI number, while manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers can access the Type Approval and Device Verification Guide on the Commission’s website.
The Controller, however, clarified that the platform was not intended to monitor users’ private activities.
“I would also like to emphasise that the Device Checker Platform is not a surveillance tool. It does not access personal data, messages, photographs, contacts, financial information, or any other private content stored on a device,” the Controller said.
“Its purpose is limited to device identification and regulatory compliance verification,” the Controller added.
The Commission advised consumers to patronise reputable and licensed dealers, verify device status before purchase and use its online resources to make informed purchasing decisions.
It also urged manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers to familiarise themselves with the Type Approval and Device Verification Guide and ensure full compliance with its requirements.
For enquiries, complaints or assistance, consumers were advised to contact the NCC through its 315 consumer toll-free number.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to protecting consumers, promoting fair competition, strengthening network integrity and fostering a trusted communications ecosystem for Nigerians.