NCC unveils device to curb counterfeit mobile phones

The Nigerian Communications Commission has unveiled its Device Checker platform to help tackle the circulation of counterfeit, cloned, unauthorised and non-compliant mobile devices in Nigeria, while enabling consumers to verify devices before purchase.

The initiative, our correspondent reports, is designed to strengthen type approval compliance, protect consumers and enhance the integrity of communications devices connected to Nigerian telecommunications networks.

Megana Ibrahim Ahmed, the Zonal Controller of the NCC Kano Zonal Office, disclosed this on Thursday, while briefing journalists, saying the commission’s Device Checker platform was designed to protect consumers, improve compliance with technical standards and strengthen the integrity of devices connected to Nigerian telecommunications networks.

“The initiative is necessary as Nigeria’s digital economy continues to expand, stressing the importance of ensuring that devices connected to telecommunications networks comply with established technical and regulatory standards,” he said.

According to Ma’azu, the commission has streamlined its licensing and regularisation process, enabling a significant number of device dealers in Kano State to obtain licences.

He added that the NCC had also conducted stakeholder sensitisation and engagement with importers and other industry participants in Lagos and other parts of the country to deepen awareness of type approval requirements and obligations under the Device Checker framework.

“These initiatives have strengthened accountability across the device supply chain and improved compliance with regulatory requirements,” Ma’azu said.

He explained that the commission had developed a user-friendly Device Checker application that allows authorised stakeholders to scan device International Mobile Equipment Identity numbers and upload information directly to the platform.

The application is intended to simplify compliance procedures, improve efficiency and make it easier for industry participants to fulfil their regulatory obligations.

Ma’azu pointed out that consumers could check the status of a device before purchase through the NCC’s Device Checker portal at www.ncc.gov.ng/devicechecker by entering the device’s IMEI number.

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He added that manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers could access the type approval and device verification guide at www.ncc.gov.ng/devicecheckerguide to understand their responsibilities under the framework.

Organisations seeking type approval can also obtain information on application requirements and procedures through the type approval section of the commission’s website at www.ncc.gov.ng/industry/numbering-typeapproval/typeapproval**.

The NCC official emphasised that the platform was not designed to monitor users’ private activities or access personal information stored on their devices.

“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,” he clarified.

He maintained that the platform’s function was limited to device identification and regulatory compliance verification.

The commission urged consumers to verify devices before purchase, patronise reputable and licensed dealers, and use its online resources to make informed purchasing decisions.

It also called on manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers to familiarise themselves with the type approval and device verification guide and ensure full compliance with the commission’s requirements.

Ma’azu said consumers seeking information, wishing to lodge complaints or requiring assistance could contact the NCC through its 315 consumer toll-free number for guidance on device verification and other consumer protection matters.

He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to protecting consumers, promoting fair competition, strengthening network integrity and fostering a trusted communications ecosystem in Nigeria.

He also called on the media to support public awareness efforts by educating Nigerians about the platform and its role in promoting compliance and consumer protection.