The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) says subscribers with a national identification number (NIN) can now replace their lost or damaged subscriber identification module (SIM) cards.
This was announced in a statement signed by Gbenga Adebayo, ALTON chairman, and Damian Udeh, ALTON publicity secretary, on Wednesday.
On December 9, 2020, Isa Pantami, minister of communications and digital economy, directed all telcos to suspend the sale, registration and activation of new SIM cards until an audit of the subscriber registration database is concluded.
ALTON said the suspension of sale and activation of SIM cards affected SIM replacement as customers experienced challenges in getting their SIM cards replaced or upgraded.
“We empathise with people who have been unable to reactivate their phone lines as a result of the suspension,” the statement read.
“Further to engagements with the government on the matter, we are pleased to report that our members have been granted permission to carry out SIM replacement upon verification of the customer’s NIN.
“We, therefore, seek the continued patience and understanding of our esteemed subscribers as we work with all stakeholders towards speedily resolution of issues affecting SIM registration/swap and activation.
“We assure you of restoring normal services in a seamless and effective manner as soon as possible.”
ALTON further said it is working with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to ensure seamless system connectivity for verification of NINs.
Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON)national identification number (NIN)replacementSIM card
