The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched the Device Management System (NCC-DMS), a cutting-edge Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) designed to regulate and manage mobile devices accessing Nigeria’s communication networks.
This innovative system aims to enhance security, ensure compliance with regulatory standards, and impose stricter control over mobile devices.
As part of its ‘Type Approval Business Rule 2024’, the NCC has mandated all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in the country to connect to the NCC-DMS.
This centralized database will track devices across all MNOs in Nigeria, enabling the Commission to monitor and regulate device access.
The NCC-DMS will acquire and synchronize the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) of all devices connecting to the communication network with international databases of IMEI repositories.
This will facilitate the creation of a comprehensive registry of all communication devices available in Nigeria.
Key features of the NCC-DMS include:
-
Registration and monitoring of device access to prevent the use of unapproved devices and curb issues like phone theft and fraudulent activities involving mobile devices.
-
Mandatory connection for all MNOs to ensure uniformity in device regulation and adherence to NCC standards and policies.
-
Limited registration of mobile devices for individuals, with the number of devices determined by the Commission.
-
Responsibility of device suppliers to register type-approved devices on the NCC-DMS.
-
Synchronization of Equipment Identity Registers (EIRs) with the NCC-DMS to ensure compliance with NCC regulations.
-
Payment of registration fees, distinct from type approval fees, for every device registered on the NCC-DMS.