Telcos Confirm SIM Swap Service Resumption After NIMC-Linked Disruption
Telecommunication giants MTN Nigeria and Airtel have confirmed the resumption of SIM swap services after days of service disruptions that affected millions of mobile subscribers across Nigeria.
The delays, which began earlier in July, were traced to technical issues with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) platform—specifically, a migration process tied to the National Identification Number (NIN) verification system.
MTN Confirms SIM Swap Services Are Back
In a statement posted via its MTN Nigeria Support account on X (formerly Twitter), the telco reassured users:
“SIM swaps have now resumed. We can confirm that NIMC services are fully operational and appreciate their support in the migration to a new platform for NIN verification services for the telecommunications industry.”
MTN also urged affected customers to visit their nearest MTN service centres for assistance with any unresolved issues.
Airtel Nigeria Acknowledges Delay, Confirms Portal is Active
Airtel Nigeria also addressed the situation on social media, clarifying earlier reports and confirming the restoration of SIM-related services. “The NIMC PORTAL is up and running. We regret earlier messages suggesting otherwise. We are sorry for the delay and are addressing the issue. We’ll update customers once resolved. We value our partnership with the NIMC and value your patience.”
What About Glo and 9mobile?
As of now, Glo and 9mobile have not issued formal updates regarding the resumption of SIM swaps or new activations. However, NIMC, through its official X account, has amplified the updates shared by MTN and Airtel—indicating the restoration applies across multiple mobile networks.
What Caused the SIM Swap Disruption in Nigeria?
Earlier in July, mobile subscribers experienced a nationwide outage in accessing SIM services such as:
- SIM swaps
- SIM replacements
- New SIM activations
This was due to a platform migration initiated by NIMC, which temporarily affected telecom operators’ ability to verify National Identification Numbers (NINs) during SIM registration processes.
Why It Matters:
The NIN verification system is mandatory under Nigeria’s SIM and NIN integration policy, enforced by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The system plays a crucial role in preventing identity fraud and ensuring SIM cards are properly linked to valid individuals.
Quick Summary: What You Should Know
- SIM swap and registration services have resumed across MTN and Airtel networks.
- The disruption was caused by NIMC’s migration to a new NIN verification platform.
- Glo and 9mobile are yet to confirm restoration, but NIMC reposted updates from MTN and Airtel.
- Customers still facing delays should visit service centres for help.
- NIN verification is mandatory for any SIM-related activity in Nigeria.
Need Help?
Visit your mobile provider’s nearest walk-in centre if you:
- Couldn’t perform a SIM swap
- Need a SIM replacement
- We were unable to activate a new SIM
Telcos have assured Nigerians they are working to clear backlogs and restore full functionality across all locations.
