The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced the Device Management System (NCC-DMS), a comprehensive Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) designed to manage and regulate mobile devices connecting to the country’s communication networks.
Under the new “Type Approval Business Rule 2024,” all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Nigeria are required to link to the system, as directed by the NCC.
This initiative aims to tighten control over mobile devices, strengthen security, and ensure compliance with established regulatory standards.
The NCC highlighted that the NCC-DMS will serve as a central database for tracking devices across all MNOs in the country.
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 Commission further emphasised that all mobile network operators must integrate with the NCC-DMS and align their network policies with those set by the NCC. This alignment ensures that network operators follow consistent standards, promoting a unified approach to device regulation.
“The NCC-DMS will collect the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) of all devices connected to the communication network and synchronise with global IMEI databases.
“It will also maintain a registry of all communication devices within Nigeria,” the Commission outlined in the Business Rule.
The NCC added that individuals will be able to register their mobile devices, though the number of devices permitted for registration will be limited, with the cap 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.
Device registration on the NCC-DMS will involve fees, separate from type approval charges.
These fees will apply to each registered device, making it a mandatory step for both suppliers and individual users.