The Nigerian Communications Commission has unveiled plans to introduce a Telecoms Identity Risk Management System platform to tackle SIM-related fraud, strengthen digital security, and boost confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the commission, Aminu Maida, disclosed this in Abuja on Thursday at a stakeholders’ consultative forum on the proposed platform and planned regulatory changes.
Maida, who was represented by the Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, said the Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Number, commonly known as SIM or mobile phone number, had become central to financial transactions, digital identity, and access to services, but warned that its widespread use had also created vulnerabilities.
He noted that fraudulent activities linked to recycled, swapped, churned, and barred SIMs had emerged as a major channel for identity theft and financial crimes, weakening trust in digital platforms.
He said, “The Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Number, commonly known as the SIM or mobile phone number, has evolved into a critical identifier underpinning financial transactions, digital authentication, and access to essential services across all sectors of our economy.
“This evolution, however, has created new and challenging vulnerabilities. The fraudulent use of churned, recycled, swapped, and barred MSISDNs has become a significant vector for financial fraud and identity theft, eroding public trust in our digital platforms and undermining the identity of systems we have worked hard to build.
“It is in direct response to these challenges that the Commission has initiated the Telecoms Identity Risk Management System Platform.”
According to him, the platform will allow service providers to verify mobile numbers flagged for suspicious or fraudulent activities before granting access, a move expected to reduce exposure to fraud and improve accountability.
He added that the system would enhance coordination among regulators, financial institutions, and security agencies to build a more resilient digital ecosystem.
To support the rollout, the commission has proposed amendments to its Quality of Service Business Rules and the Registration of Communications Subscribers framework.
The proposed changes require telecom operators to notify subscribers at least 14 days before recycling their lines and to upload details of churned numbers to the platform within seven days.
The amendments also introduce stricter provisions for blocking fraudulently registered or misused SIMs, aimed at improving transparency and protecting consumers.
Maida said the initiative reflects the commission’s commitment to collaboration and a whole-of-government approach to addressing digital risks, urging stakeholders to actively contribute to shaping the framework.
Also speaking, the Director of Cybersecurity and Internet Governance at the commission, Olatokunbo Oyeleye, said trust remains critical to the digital economy.
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