The Nigerian Communications Commission has announced the disqualification of anyone below the age of 18 from registering and owning a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) in Nigeria.
This was contained in the draft copy of the modified Registration of Telephone Subscribers Regulations published on the commission’s website.
According to the modified regulations, NCC limited telecoms subscribers to only include anyone above the age of 18.
“‘Subscriber’ means a person not below the age of 18 years who subscribes to communications services by purchasing a subscription medium or entering into a subscription contract with a licensee.”
The Licensee refers to ‘a provider of communications services that utilises a subscription medium in the Federal Republic of Nigeria’.
NCC’s Executive Commissioner Stakeholders’ Management, Mr Adeleke Adewolu, gave the opening remark at the event.
He said, “The public inquiry is an avenue that enables the commission develop and review its regulatory instruments by incorporating the comments and suggestions of industry stakeholders.”
At the public inquiry, which was held physically and virtually, key stakeholders, including MTN, urged the commission to revise the age limit. MTN added that the age limit should be 14 years.
The NCC however maintained its stance adding that the age limit remains 18 years. above for anyone who wants to own and register a SIM in Nigeria.