Telecom operators announce nationwide disruption of SIM services amid platform transition

The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has announced a temporary nationwide disruption of SIM-related services across all mobile networks, citing ongoing technical challenges linked to a mandatory platform migration directed by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).

Gbenga Adebayo, ALTON Chairman, made the disclosure in a joint statement released on Tuesday alongside Damian Udeh, the association’s Publicity Secretary.

According to the statement, the disruption stems from a directive by the NIMC instructing all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to migrate to a new identity verification system.

The platform, which is designed to improve the efficiency and integrity of national identity management, has encountered unforeseen integration issues, significantly impacting real-time identity verification processes.

These challenges are currently affecting several critical services, including SIM registration, SIM swap and replacement, mobile number portability (MNP), and the activation of new subscribers.

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“While the new platform is intended to enhance the integrity and efficiency of identity management in Nigeria, unfortunately, the transition has temporarily impacted the ability of MNOs to deliver seamless SIM-related services,” the statement read.

ALTON confirmed that during the period of service disruption, telecom operators will be unable to process SIM-related transactions, urging subscribers to defer visits to service centres until further notice.

“We understand the inconvenience this may cause to millions of subscribers who depend on these services for communication, business, and daily activities,” Adebayo stated. “We sincerely apologise for the disruption and kindly advise subscribers to postpone visits to service centres for SIM-related transactions until further notice.”

The association further assured the public that it is working closely with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the NIMC, and other relevant regulatory bodies to resolve the technical difficulties as quickly as possible.

Adebayo reiterated ALTON’s commitment to delivering secure, high-quality telecommunications services, adding that subscribers will be kept updated as the situation progresses.