The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) says it is not developing a regulation that will disqualify Nigerians below 18 years of age from getting a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM).

A statement by the Director of Public Affairs NCC, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde refutes a publication in a section of the media, purporting that the Commission is developing a regulation to disqualify Nigerians below 18 years of age from getting (SIM).

According to the statement, the report is not only misleading and inaccurate; but misinformation and mischaracterization of the proceedings of the Public Inquiry on the Reviewed/Draft Registration of Telephone Subscribers Regulations, which took place on Tuesday, October 6, 2021.

It notes that the Commission considers it necessary to set the record straight for the purpose of serving existing and potential telecom subscribers, investors, and other stakeholders in the industry accurate information for making informed decisions.

In accordance with sections 70 and 71 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA), 2003 and the Commission’s consultative engagement process, which defines its rule-making process, the public inquiry was held for all relevant stakeholders to provide input on the draft regulatory instrument, the statement notes.

It states that the 18 years for SIM acquisition proposed in the draft regulation is contingent on the constitutional provision, which makes 18 years the age of consent in Nigeria.

Also, SIM acquisition is a contract between service providers and their subscribers, which requires the subscriber to have proper legal status, be of the matured mind, and be rational enough to bear certain responsibilities, obligations, and liabilities imposed by a contract.

The proposal is, therefore, to protect minors. Parents and guardians can acquire SIMs in their names on behalf of their children and wards in which case they assume whatever responsibilities or liabilities that arise from the usage of such SIMs, a measure expected to also strengthen national security.

RN