The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched the Device Management System (NCC-DMS), designed to manage and regulate mobile devices connecting to the country’s communication networks. NCC-DMS is a comprehensive Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) which will serve as a database for tracking and monitoring mobile devices across all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Nigeria. Under the new regulation of the “Type Approval Business Rule 2024,” all MNOs in Nigeria are required to link to the system.
This initiative aims to tighten control over mobile devices, strengthen security, and ensure compliance with established regulatory standards.
Through device registration and monitoring, the NCC seeks to restrict the use of unauthorized devices and mitigate issues such as phone theft and mobile device fraud.
“The NCC-DMS will collect the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) of all devices connected to the communication network and synchronize with global IMEI databases.
“It will also maintain a registry of all communication devices within Nigeria.”
The NCC added that individuals will be able to register their mobile devices, though with limited devices, set by the Commission.
Additionally, device suppliers will be responsible for registering type-approved devices on the NCC-DMS.
All MNOs must also synchronize their Equipment Identity Registers (EIRs) with the NCC-DMS, ensuring that devices accessing their networks meet NCC standards.
