The Federal Government, through the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has intensified efforts to ensure that mobile phones and other SIM-enabled devices used in Nigeria comply with approved technical standards.
The initiative is designed to identify unapproved devices, strengthen compliance in the telecommunications market and prevent phones that fail the required verification process from accessing Nigerian mobile networks.
The NCC said its Device Management System would help verify devices using their International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers. The commission explained that the system would also support efforts to identify cloned devices and prevent phones reported stolen from being used on local networks.
According to the regulator, the enforcement system took effect on October 7, 2026, with newly imported devices required to undergo verification before being sold or used on Nigerian networks. The commission has encouraged consumers to check their phones’ status to avoid unexpected disruptions.
How to Check if Your Phone Is Approved
The NCC has introduced a simple process that allows Nigerians to check whether their devices meet the required approval and verification standards.
1. Dial the NCC Verification Code
Phone users can dial *315# on their handsets and follow the instructions to check their device status.
The commission also provides an online verification service through its official website at https://www.ncc.gov.ng/devicechecker.
Users should confirm that the result indicates the device is type-approved and verified for use on Nigerian mobile networks.
2. Find Your Phone’s IMEI Number
The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a unique 15-digit number used to identify a mobile device.
To find yours:
Open your phone’s dial pad.
Dial *#06#.
Your IMEI number should appear on the screen.
Some phones that support two SIM cards have two IMEI numbers. Keep these details private and enter them only through official verification channels when required.
3. Check Your Phone on the NCC Website
Consumers can visit the NCC Device Checker portal to verify a device’s status. Depending on the type of check, they may be asked to provide the phone’s model number or IMEI.
Before purchasing a new or second-hand phone, buyers are encouraged to confirm that the device has received the necessary approval and verification.
4. Contact the Seller or NCC if Your Phone Is Flagged
If the verification service indicates a problem, users should contact the seller or importer for clarification and seek assistance from the NCC or their mobile network provider.
A failed verification does not automatically mean that a phone is counterfeit or stolen. The issue could require further checks to establish the device’s status.
Consumers should avoid paying unofficial agents who claim they can bypass the NCC’s verification system.
Will Existing Phones Stop Working?
The NCC has clarified that phones already connected to Nigerian mobile networks before the system took effect on October 7, 2026, were automatically verified and do not require additional action under the rollout.
This also covers devices already in use, phones purchased locally, including second-hand handsets, and phones transferred between family members or friends.
However, users whose devices cannot be verified or are subject to a compliance restriction should follow the instructions provided and contact the relevant authorities for assistance.
The commission has stressed that the verification process is separate from SIM registration. While SIM registration identifies a subscriber, device verification establishes whether a particular handset meets the applicable regulatory requirements.
Why the NCC Is Introducing the System
The regulator said the initiative is intended to strengthen enforcement of existing type-approval rules and improve oversight of mobile devices entering and operating in Nigeria.
Under these rules, communications equipment must meet specified technical standards before it can be imported, sold or used in the country.
The device management system is also expected to help tackle the use of cloned IMEI numbers and devices reported stolen.
The NCC has emphasised that the platform is designed to handle device identification and regulatory compliance. It does not give the commission access to the contents of users’ phones or enable it to monitor their personal communications.
What Nigerians Should Do
Phone owners are advised to verify unfamiliar devices before purchasing them, particularly handsets imported from abroad or bought through unofficial channels.
Anyone who receives a warning about a phone’s status should check the device through the official NCC platform rather than immediately replacing it.
For further clarification, users can contact the NCC through its official website or toll-free consumer assistance line.
The commission said the system is intended to improve compliance and protect consumers while ensuring that devices operating on Nigerian telecommunications networks meet the required standards.
