Nationwide SIM Services Disruption Hits Nigerians Amid NIMC Platform Migration

Nigerians across the country are currently experiencing a major disruption in SIM-related services, following the migration of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to a new digital identity verification platform. This development has caused unexpected technical issues, forcing mobile network operators to suspend services such as SIM swaps, replacements, activations, and number porting. According to a statement from the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), the transition has created temporary difficulties in verifying users’ National Identification Numbers (NIN) through the new system. As a result, all telecom providers, including MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile, have been affected. The suspension is particularly frustrating for subscribers who urgently need to retrieve lost lines, change devices, or port their numbers. The development also impacts people who rely on SIM cards for access to banking, business communications, and other di...